Main Entry: ¹re·verse

Pronunciation: \ri-ˈvərs\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Middle English revers, from Anglo-French, from Latin reversus, past participle of revertere to turn back — more at revert

Date: 14th century

1 a : opposite or contrary to a previous or normal condition <reverse order> b (1) : having the back presented to the observer or opponent (2) : made with one's back to the basketball net <a reverse layup>
2 : coming from the rear of a military force
3 : acting, operating, or arranged in a manner contrary to the usual
4 : effecting reverse movement <reverse gear>
5 : so made that the part which normally prints in color appears white against a colored background

— re·verse·ly adverb