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 likely, …

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

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

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

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.

3 days ago · Rife therapy is an alternative treatment that uses low-energy electromagnetic frequencies directed at the body, based on the idea that specific frequencies can destroy disease-causing …

Dec 23, 2025 · Adverb rife (comparative more rife, superlative most rife) Plentifully, abundantly.

rife definition: full of, especially something undesirable. Check meanings, examples, usage tips, pronunciation, domains, and related words. Discover expressions like "rife with", "rumour is rife", …

rife with : having a large amount of (something bad or unpleasant) : full of (something bad or unpleasant)