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
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
This approach is a reversal of a long tradition of planning in San Diego based on accommodating growth where public facilities were available or would become available as growth occurred; with a notable, tragic omission.
—
Nico Calavita, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 Feb. 2026
Through this role reversal, the camera documents Daniel’s daily life as a motel owner in a candid, effortless, yet humorous manner, gradually unveiling his larger-than-life personality and his somewhat tumultuous relationship with his wife, Lourdes.
—Matthew Carey, Deadline, 17 Feb. 2026
Purim and the neuroscience of reversal Purim is a holiday of hafuch, of turning upside down.
—Rabbi Bruce D. Forman, Sun Sentinel, 17 Feb. 2026
Rainey got a takedown early in the first period, but Fitzgerald got out of it and pulled within 3-2 on the reversal.
—Cody Thorn, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for reversal
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Nico Calavita, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 Feb. 2026
Through this role reversal, the camera documents Daniel’s daily life as a motel owner in a candid, effortless, yet humorous manner, gradually unveiling his larger-than-life personality and his somewhat tumultuous relationship with his wife, Lourdes.
—Matthew Carey, Deadline, 17 Feb. 2026
Purim and the neuroscience of reversal Purim is a holiday of hafuch, of turning upside down.
—Rabbi Bruce D. Forman, Sun Sentinel, 17 Feb. 2026
Rainey got a takedown early in the first period, but Fitzgerald got out of it and pulled within 3-2 on the reversal.
—Cody Thorn, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for reversal
Cite this Entry
“Reversal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reversal. Accessed 22 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationKids 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
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