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.
Advertisement Although the men’s role reversal remains the dominant drama, the shakeup also puts a new spotlight on the women, who are reassigned to an all-female shift. — Judy Berman, Time, 21 Oct. 2026 The sharp reversal came after the company's disappointing debut reignited concerns over whether heavy spending on AI infrastructure would translate into sustainable profits. — Sean Conlon,hugh Leask,lee Ying Shan,deena Zaidi, CNBC, 20 Oct. 2026 Unlike Proposition 132, the 2022 fentanyl act directed funding for the distribution of naloxone, an overdose reversal medication, and fentanyl test strips that help people identify fentanyl in their drugs before using them. — Joshua Barocas, The Conversation, 16 Oct. 2026 Some of those letters contained threats and traces of the powerful opioid fentanyl, leading some election offices to stock up on the overdose reversal medication naloxone. — Lisa Mascaro, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 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 27 Oct. 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

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