reversal
noun
re·ver·sal
ri-ˈvər-səl 
1
: an act or the process of reversing
In a sudden reversal, the mayor decided not to run for reelection.
2
: a conversion of a photographic positive into a negative or vice versa
3
: a change (as of fortune) often for the worse
a financial reversal
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 reversal comes after Democratic Attorney General Rob Bonta and the UCLA Voting Rights Project launched legal challenges last week, arguing the sheriff has no authority over election materials.
—
ABC News, 31 Mar. 2026
The walk was undone by the reversal of the pitch call, but Shelton thought the challenge was issued too late and shouldn’t have been allowed (elsewhere an umpire decided the Braves’ Matt Olson was actually guilty of a too-slow head tap and refused to send a strike against him to review).
—Hannah Keyser, CNN Money, 31 Mar. 2026
The reversals could have massive implications for the November midterm elections, particularly in competitive congressional districts where small swings could determine control of the House.
—Los Angeles Times, 29 Mar. 2026
Macron’s presence underscored a remarkable reversal.
—Thomas Adamson, Fortune, 29 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for reversal
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ABC News, 31 Mar. 2026
The walk was undone by the reversal of the pitch call, but Shelton thought the challenge was issued too late and shouldn’t have been allowed (elsewhere an umpire decided the Braves’ Matt Olson was actually guilty of a too-slow head tap and refused to send a strike against him to review).
—Hannah Keyser, CNN Money, 31 Mar. 2026
The reversals could have massive implications for the November midterm elections, particularly in competitive congressional districts where small swings could determine control of the House.
—Los Angeles Times, 29 Mar. 2026
Macron’s presence underscored a remarkable reversal.
—Thomas Adamson, Fortune, 29 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for reversal
Cite this Entry
“Reversal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reversal. Accessed 3 Apr. 2026.
Copy CitationKids 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
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