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

Synonyms of reversal

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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.
In perhaps the coolest reversal in the show thus far, the Lanterns are attacked with guns that produce darkness, which manifests here as smoke but prevents them from seeing or creating light constructs. — Siddhant Adlakha, Vulture, 7 Sep. 2026 The state’s sudden reversal caused rapid reactions from law enforcement agencies — some immediately complying, others unsure of the next steps. — Devoun Cetoute, Miami Herald, 5 Sep. 2026 And at the end of it all, a euphoric fan base, tipsy with its sudden reversal of fortune, belted out a 1976 Abba song in South Florida. — Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 4 Sep. 2026 Alpine remains sixth but now faces a 16-point gap to Racing Bulls, with Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad gaining positions with the decision reversal. — Madeline Coleman, New York Times, 4 Sep. 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

Phrases Containing reversal

Rhymes for reversal

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Browse Nearby Words

revers
reversal
reversal process
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Cite this Entry

“Reversal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reversal. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about reversal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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