reversal

noun

re·​ver·​sal ri-ˈvər-səl How to pronounce reversal (audio)
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
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.
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 

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

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 How to pronounce reversal (audio)
: an act or the process of reversing

Medical Definition

reversal

noun
re·​ver·​sal ri-ˈvər-səl How to pronounce reversal (audio)
: 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

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