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

The reversal follows an announcement from the archdiocese last week accusing CPS of ending services for Catholic school students under the Individual with Disabilities Education Act, or IDEA, just two months before the last day of school. —Kate Armanini, Chicago Tribune, 17 Apr. 2026

Hiring in technical and scientific fields only made up 400 new positions, but represented a reversal after months of job losses. —Phillip Molnar, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 Apr. 2026

From Boom to Pullback The shift follows a rapid rise, and reversal, in streaming’s push into kids content. —Callum McLennan, Variety, 17 Apr. 2026

The administration did not immediately explain the reversal. —ABC News, 17 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing reversal

• time reversal

Rhymes for reversal

• demersal
• 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