reversal

noun

re·​ver·​sal ri-ˈvər-səl 

1

: an act or the process of reversing

In a sudden reversal, the mayor decided not to run for reelection.

2

: a conversion of a photographic positive into a negative or vice versa

3

: a change (as of fortune) often for the worse

a financial reversal

Synonyms of reversal

• reverse
• setback

Examples of reversal in a Sentence

In a sudden reversal, the mayor has decided not to run for reelection.

the reversal of a decision

a surprising reversal in the value of the stock

We had a role reversal. I became the leader and he became the follower.

In a reversal of roles, he is now taking care of his mother.

Reversal of the decision is unlikely.

Recent Examples on the Web

Wired first reported its reversal. —Jared Perlo, NBC news, 11 June 2026

Sales dropped as mortgage rates began rising due to the Fed’s 2022 policy reversal to fight inflation. —Bill Conerly, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026

These latest results continue what was a reversal from trailing for six days to leading, which first occurred after the ballot counting tally of June 8 when Measure ER barely leapfrogged into the lead. —Steve Scauzillo, Daily News, 10 June 2026

That marks a sharp reversal from April, when investors largely expected the Fed’s next move would be a rate cut. —Mike Winters, CNBC, 10 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing reversal

• time reversal

Rhymes for reversal

• dispersal
• rehearsal
• transversal
• traversal
• bursal
• versal
• universal

Kids Definition

reversal

noun

re·​ver·​sal ri-ˈvər-səl 

: an act or the process of reversing

Medical Definition

reversal

noun

re·​ver·​sal ri-ˈvər-səl 

: an act or the process of reversing

Legal Definition

reversal

noun

re·​ver·​sal

1

: an act or the process of reversing

2

: an instance of reversing

the reversal of the lower court's decision