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
Those reversals all took place in races where there was a less than 0.06% difference between the candidates.
—Alison Durkee, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024
The startling reversal driven by the gender gap and the strength of independent women, who back Harris by a 28-point margin.
—NBC News, 3 Nov. 2024
The reversal comes after a bombastic launch for the drinks.
—Jordan Valinsky, CNN, 29 Oct. 2024
Zoom out: The current overall confidence divide is a reversal from just six years ago.
—Kathleen Hunter, Axios, 24 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for reversal
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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 22 Nov. 2024.
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 English: Translation of reversal for Arabic Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about reversal
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