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

The policy represents a reversal for Fannie and Freddie, the two entities under government conservatorship that guarantee more than half of America’s mortgages. —Samantha Delouya, CNN Money, 25 June 2025

Trump and his party have made the rollback of LGBTQ rights a nationwide priority, and more encroachments—perhaps even the reversal of Obergefell—appear to be on conservatives’ radar. —Emma Sarappo, The Atlantic, 25 June 2025

Recent events may offer a bit of a reprieve, or perhaps even a reversal. —Ulrich Boser, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025

The sudden and complete reversal highlights a fundamental schism within the party of Trump: Wealthy hotel, hospitality, and agriculture executives and business owners have complained to Trump about losing a reliable workforce. —Irina Ivanova, Fortune, 22 June 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