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 62-year-old is expected Wednesday to announce a stunning reversal, changing his claims of innocence to guilty pleas in all seven murders he is charged with -- and an eighth unsolved murder. —Jeff Capellini, CBS News, 7 Apr. 2026

The stock has plunged nearly 26% in 2026, marking a reversal from its rallies over the past few years. —Liz Napolitano, CNBC, 6 Apr. 2026

Auriemma has, on occasion, counseled Hurley, which made this role reversal so ironic. —Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 5 Apr. 2026

The Mets are enjoying quite a reversal of fortune in San Francisco this weekend. —Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 5 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