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
Meanwhile, Harris was found to be leading Trump in Iowa, an unexpected reversal in a state where Democrats and Republicans alike believed a Trump victory was virtually certain.
—Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY, 4 Nov. 2024
Trump, meanwhile, has stopped claiming credit for the reversal of Roe, effectively conceding on one battle in the culture wars.
—Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024
Some Democratic lawmakers warn that in addition to further rollbacks of women’s reproductive rights, a second Donald Trump presidency would also mean a reversal of the progress that has been made in women’s health research under President Biden.
—Alejandra O’Connell-Domenech, The Hill, 1 Nov. 2024
Trump is up 50% to 47% in a Washington Post-Schar School poll released last week, still within the 3.9-point margin of error, while a Quinnipiac poll of likely voters released Oct. 16 found Harris leading 49% to 47%, a reversal of Trump’s 49%-47% lead two weeks ago.
—Sara Dorn, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for reversal
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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
Dictionary Entries Near reversal
Cite this Entry
“Reversal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reversal. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.
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
More from Merriam-Webster on reversal
Nglish: Translation of reversal for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of reversal for Arabic Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about reversal
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