reversal

noun

re·​ver·​sal ri-ˈvər-səl How to pronounce reversal (audio)
Synonyms of reversalnext
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
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.
Note the two identical charts below, one with annotations depicting the bottoming out process underway, and one with the 150-day moving average, also depicting a bottoming out reversal formation. Carter Braxton Worth, CNBC, 15 May 2026 At the center of the stunning reversal is Hill, who oversaw the blockbuster proceedings and was later accused of improperly influencing jurors. Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, FOXNews.com, 14 May 2026 Most of all, this sale would clinch a landmark reversal of Boeing’s recent fraught relations and virtually frozen business vis a vis China in recent years. Shawn Tully, Fortune, 14 May 2026 The Justice Department's quick reversal of this action is a sign that Trump wants this fight to happen, Johnson says. Brittney Melton, NPR, 14 May 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Reversal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reversal. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

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

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster