Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Rife \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.