reversal

noun

re·​ver·​sal ri-ˈvər-səl 

1

: an act or the process of reversing

2

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

3

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

Synonyms

• 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

At a time when America is wrestling with declining church attendance, a surprising reversal has pastors and researchers talking about the possibility of a new revival. —Mitch Picasso, FOXNews.com, 4 Oct. 2025

For Jung, the dynamic represents a reversal of some traditional gender norms. —Kayti Burt, Time, 3 Oct. 2025

But Democrats in Congress continued to demand the reversal of Medicaid cuts that Republicans passed this year and the extension of health care subsidies be included in a funding measure. —Joey Garrison, USA Today, 2 Oct. 2025

Traders often read this pattern as a signal of a reversal and potentially more pain ahead. —Sean Conlon,pia Singh, CNBC, 2 Oct. 2025

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