WordNet Dictionary- [adj] excessively abundant
- [adj] encountered generally especially at the present time; "the prevailing opinion was that a trade war could be averted"; "the most prevalent religion in our area"; "speculation concerning the books author was rife"
Webster's 1913 Dictionary\Rife\, a. [AS. r[=i]f abundant, or Icel. r[=i]fr
munificent; akin to OD. riff, rijve, abundant.]
1. Prevailing; prevalent; abounding.
Before the plague of London, inflammations of the
lungs were rife and mortal. --Arbuthnot.
Even now the tumult of loud mirth Was rife, and
perfect in may listening ear. --Milton.
2. Having power; active; nimble. [Obs.]
What! I am rife a little yet. --J. Webster.
-- {Rife"ly}, adv. -- {Rife"ness}, n.