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 abrupt reversal has drawn scrutiny from legal analysts and former prosecutors, who say the shift raises questions about political influence on investigative priorities. —Robert Alexander, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Nov. 2025

Enter six people with links to the world of crime writing, each with their own sad tale and in need of a reversal of fortunes. —Sabienna Bowman, PEOPLE, 29 Nov. 2025

When asked this week about his reversal on Measure A, the county’s top law enforcement official signaled potential budget woes in his office. —Grace Hase, Mercury News, 28 Nov. 2025

The row over income taxes is just the latest in this series of reversals. —Oliver Eagleton, Time, 26 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