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

Average tariff rates continued to fall the ensuing months, but made a reversal in August as the Section 301 duties took hold. — Kate Nishimura, Footwear News, 14 Oct. 2026

The midday reversal came as equities sold off, with the S&P 500 dropping more than 1%, leading some investors to rotate back into the relative safety of the bond market. — Michelle Fox,sean Conlon,sawdah Bhaimiya, CNBC, 14 Oct. 2026

The notices, the standing ovations, the awards buzz — all of it represents a stunning reversal of fortune for Guadagnino after the Amazon debacle in June. — Matt Donnelly, Variety, 14 Oct. 2026

Kansas City, Missouri, could max out in the mid 70s on Thursday after topping 90 degrees Fahrenheit Tuesday — a nearly 20-degree reversal. — Mary Gilbert, CNN Money, 13 Oct. 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