It comes from the Old English adjective rȳfe and first appeared in written form in the 12th century. Its oldest meaning, still in use today, is synonymous with widespread and prevalent; it's more …

RIFE definition: 1. If something unpleasant is rife, it is very common or happens a lot: 2. full of something…. Learn more.

RIFE definition: of common or frequent occurrence; prevalent; in widespread existence, activity, or use. See examples of rife used in a sentence.

Definition of rife adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

1. of common or frequent occurrence; prevalent; widespread: Crime is rife in the city. 2. abundant, plentiful, or numerous. 3. abounding (usu. fol. by with).

RIFE meaning: 1. If something unpleasant is rife, it is very common or happens a lot: 2. full of something…. Learn more.

Matt Rife was born in Columbus, Ohio, and raised in the village of North Lewisburg, Ohio. [3][1] He also lived in New Albany and Mount Vernon. [4] Rife first took an interest in comedy at 14 …

There are 24 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word rife, 15 of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

in widespread existence, activity, or use: Crime is rife in the slum areas of our cities. current in speech or report: Rumors are rife that the government is in financial difficulty.

Dec 23, 2025 · rife (comparative rifer, superlative rifest) Smallpox was rife after the siege had been lifted. Before the plague of London, inflammations of the lungs were rife and mortal.