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

Trump officials' focus on recouping payments from defaulted student loan borrowers was a reversal of the Education Department's strategy under former President Joe Biden, which centered more on providing borrowers with additional options to get current on their bills. —Annie Nova, CNBC, 31 Oct. 2025

The announcement, made via social media ahead of a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, signals a potential reversal of a decades-long moratorium in place since 1992. —Joshua Rhett Miller, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Oct. 2025

The administration is now arguing that the fund is not usable, which Kogan said is a course reversal. —Zach Halaschak, The Washington Examiner, 29 Oct. 2025

What was the driving factor in that reversal of fortune? —Kyle Newman, Denver Post, 29 Oct. 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