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
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
Soter said companies that had been preparing to meet the rule's requirements could see the writing on the wall, with Donald Trump's election victory marking a reversal from the climate action under President Joe Biden.
—
Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 14 Feb. 2025
This stark reversal of values is a signature of the Trump restoration.
—
Michelle Goldberg, The Mercury News, 13 Feb. 2025
Gabbard was grilled by lawmakers from both sides of the aisle about her reversal on a key surveillance tool, Section 702 of the FISA, and her refusal to label former National Security Agency leaker Edward Snowden a traitor during contentious confirmation hearings on Capitol Hill last month.
—
Beatrice Peterson, ABC News, 12 Feb. 2025
The emotions were again raw but a complete reversal.
—
Corey Masisak, The Denver Post, 10 Feb. 2025
See all Example Sentences for reversal 
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Word History
First Known Use
15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Time Traveler
The first known use of reversal was
in the 15th century
Phrases Containing reversal
Dictionary Entries Near reversal
Cite this Entry
“Reversal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reversal. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.
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
More from Merriam-Webster on reversal
Nglish: Translation of reversal for Spanish Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about reversal
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share