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

Defense and conditioning needs work In what has been a role reversal for a man who was lauded as a stopper in Ann Arbor, Lendeborg’s hot shooting has been balanced out by his unfocused defense. — Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 19 July 2026

But after SpaceX’s recent reversal, some investors worry the enthusiasm around mega IPOs — such as potential ones from artificial intelligence giants OpenAI or Anthropic that could also be up for fast-track index inclusion — could wane. — Tobias Burns, CNBC, 17 July 2026

The shootings and rapid policy reversal have fueled calls for a review of ICE's tactics and raised broader questions about how the administration's push for mass deportations is changing the way immigration agents operate in American communities. — Christopher Cann, USA Today, 17 July 2026

In addition to administering the toxic combination of medications, Hemphill failed to recognize and treat signs of respiratory distress, and administered the incorrect reversal medication for the kind of drug the girl had been given, Spragins wrote. — Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 July 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