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

LaVergne’s move marks a notable reversal. —Stephen Sorace, FOXNews.com, 16 Nov. 2025

One tectonic reversal—the Digital Reversal—consists of countless reversals across all aspects of human life. —Big Think, 16 Nov. 2025

In the graph, many forecast members (blue lines) dip toward or below 0 m/s in late November, showing the potential for a significant weakening or even reversal of the 10 hPa zonal winds, compared with the typical climatological values shown in red. —Brandi D. Addison, jsonline.com, 14 Nov. 2025

Meanwhile, in a striking reversal, the Soviet Union and the former East Bloc nations all voted for repeal. —Frederic J. Frommer, The Washington Examiner, 14 Nov. 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