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

Synonyms of reversal

• 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, who generally resists admitting fault, has recently made several reversals responding to ethical concerns. — Isaac Arnsdorf, Washington Post, 7 Oct. 2026

There’s an exodus reversal happening, as seen by a growing body of relevant anecdotes. — Daniel Hernandez, Los Angeles Times, 7 Oct. 2026

The decision marks a dramatic reversal, after Ethiopian and Eritrean forces united in fighting the TPLF during the previous conflict. — Jeronimo Gonzalez, semafor.com, 5 Oct. 2026

Time-reversal symmetry means that a physical system should behave the same way whether time runs forward or backward. — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 3 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing reversal

• time reversal

Rhymes for reversal

• 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