reverse
(noun, adjective, verb, adverb)
adjective
1. directed or moving toward the rear
Similar word(s): backward, rearward
2. of the transmission gear causing backward movement in a motor vehicle
- in reverse gear
3. reversed (turned backward) in order or nature or effect
Similar word(s): backward, inverse
Sentences with reverse as an adjective:
- We ate the meal in reverse order, starting with dessert and ending with the starter.
- The mirror showed us a reverse view of the scene.
- He selected reverse gear.
- a reverse shell
adverb
1. (now rare) In a reverse way or direction; upside-down. [from 14thc.]
noun
1. a relation of direct opposition
- we thought Sue was older than Bill but just the reverse was true
Similar word(s): contrary, opposite
Definition categories: link, oppositeness, opposition
2. the gears by which the motion of a machine can be reversed
Definition categories: man–made, gear
3. an unfortunate happening that hinders or impedes; something that is thwarting or frustrating
Similar word(s): blow, reversal, setback
Definition categories: event, happening, occurrence, occurrent
4. the side of a coin or medal that does not bear the principal design
Similar word(s): verso
Definition categories: man–made, side
5. (American football) a running play in which a back running in one direction hands the ball to a back running in the opposite direction
Definition categories: act, run, running
6. turning in the opposite direction
Similar word(s): reversal, reversion, turnabout, turnaround
Definition categories: act, reorientation
Sentences with reverse as a noun:
- We believed the Chinese weren't ready for us. In fact, the reverse was true.
verb
1. change to the contrary
- The trend was reversed
- public opinion turned when it was revealed that the president had an affair with a White House intern
Similar word(s): turn
Definition categories: change
2. turn inside out or upside down
Similar word(s): invert
Definition categories: change, alter, modify
3. rule against
Similar word(s): override, overrule, overthrow, overturn
Definition categories: cognition, decree, rule
4. cancel officially
- He revoked the ban on smoking
Similar word(s): annul, countermand, lift, overturn, repeal, rescind, revoke, vacate
Definition categories: communication, cancel
5. reverse the position, order, relation, or condition of
Similar word(s): invert
Definition categories: change, reorder
Sentences with reverse as a verb:
- to reverse a judgment, sentence, or decree