reversal
noun
re·ver·sal
ri-ˈvər-səl 
1
: an act or the process of reversing
2
: a conversion of a photographic positive into a negative or vice versa
3
: a change (as of fortune) often for the worse
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
These latest numbers represent a slight reversal of fortune for Biden.
—
W. James Antle Iii, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 27 June 2024
That number steadily declined afterward — down to a dismal three in 2023 before this year’s slight trend reversal.
—Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 25 June 2024
This was a surprising reversal, as my parents, much to the disappointment of our extended family, had never been particularly observant.
—Nicolaia Rips, The New Yorker, 21 June 2024
Then in one of the most dramatic temperature reversals in Chicago’s history, everything changed.
—Marianne Mather, Chicago Tribune, 20 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for reversal 
W. James Antle Iii, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 27 June 2024
That number steadily declined afterward — down to a dismal three in 2023 before this year’s slight trend reversal.
—Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 25 June 2024
This was a surprising reversal, as my parents, much to the disappointment of our extended family, had never been particularly observant.
—Nicolaia Rips, The New Yorker, 21 June 2024
Then in one of the most dramatic temperature reversals in Chicago’s history, everything changed.
—Marianne Mather, Chicago Tribune, 20 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for reversal
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'reversal.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near reversal
Cite this Entry
“Reversal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reversal. Accessed 4 Jul. 2024.
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
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share