reversal Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a change from one state to the opposite state
    • there was a reversal of autonomic function
  2. noun an unfortunate happening that hinders or impedes; something that is thwarting or frustrating
    blow; setback; reverse; black eye.
  3. noun turning in an opposite direction or position
    turn around.
    • the reversal of the image in the lens
  4. noun a decision to reverse an earlier decision
    turnaround; flip-flop; change of mind; turnabout.
  5. noun a judgment by a higher court that the judgment of a lower court was incorrect and should be set aside
  6. noun turning in the opposite direction
    reversion; turnaround; reverse; turnabout.
  7. noun the act of reversing the order or place of
    transposition.
  8. noun a major change in attitude or principle or point of view
    about-face; volte-face; policy change.
    • an about-face on foreign policy

WordNet

Re*ver"sal adjective
Etymology
See Reverse.
Definitions
  1. Intended to reverse; implying reversal. Obs. Bp. Burnet.
Re*ver"sal noun
Etymology
From Reverse.
Definitions
  1. The act of reversing; the causing to move or face in an opposite direction, or to stand or lie in an inverted position; as, the reversal of a rotating wheel; the reversal of objects by a convex lens.
  2. A change or overthrowing; as, the reversal of a judgment, which amounts to an official declaration that it is false; the reversal of an attainder, or of an outlawry, by which the sentence is rendered void. Blackstone.

Webster 1913