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

• knock
• lapse
• 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 president’s public pressure campaign on the Fed comes as the central bank faces an ironic, whiplash-inducing reversal. —Brian Cheung, NBC news, 8 May 2025

Since Bloomberg first reported the reversal on Wednesday, Nvidia and AMD stocks have gained 4.4% and 3.4%, respectively. —Niamh Rowe, Quartz, 8 May 2025

This technical set-up, combined with overbought conditions, suggests a potential reversal lower, with a downside target near $220, offering an attractive risk-to-reward profile for a bearish trade. —Tony Zhang, CNBC, 7 May 2025

But the reversal was never officially confirmed, so the study’s lead investigators – including me – remain concerned about its future. —Jean Wactawski-Wende, The Conversation, 2 May 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