reversal

[ri-vur-suhl]

noun

1. an act or instance of reversing.

2. the state of being reversed.

3. an adverse change of fortune; reverse.

4. Law.,  the setting aside of a decision of a lower court by a higher court.

reversal

/ rɪˈvɜːsəl /

noun

1. the act or an instance of reversing

2. a change for the worse; reverse

   a reversal of fortune

3. the state of being reversed

4. the annulment of a judicial decision, esp by an appeal court on grounds of error or irregularity

Other Word Forms

• prereversal noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of reversal¹

First recorded in 1480–90; reverse + -al ²

Example Sentences

It is an incredible reversal of fortunes for a team that lost five of their first eight top-flight games last season and took until 27 October to register a league win.

From BBC

As for the long-term consequences of such a dramatic reversal — or implosion or willful destruction — in America’s relationship to the rest of the world, they are scarcely imaginable.

From Salon

The reversal means 75% of pensioners in England and Wales will receive the payment in winter 2025, and the rules will also change again in Scotland.

From BBC

Like many such reversals, it’s been a bit clumsy at times, complicated by the fact that Albers’ practice borrowed — quite openly — from Indigenous craft, specifically ancient Peruvian weaving traditions.

From Los Angeles Times

Wise also noted Kehor’s July reversal of voter-approved sick leave and minimum wage in the state as another threat to democracy in Missouri.

From Salon

Related Words

• U-turn 
• annulment 
• cancellation 
• repeal 
• switch 
• turnabout 
• turnaround