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 force3: acting, operating, or arranged in a manner contrary to the usual4: 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