Reverse (Noun)
Meaning 1
The side of a coin or medal that does not bear the principal design.
Classification
Nouns denoting man-made objects.
Examples
- The reverse of the coin featured an image of a eagle soaring through the skies.
- The medal had a plain reverse, while the obverse was intricately designed.
- Collectors often examine the reverse of coins for unique markings or designs.
- The reverse of the dollar coin features an image of the Statue of Liberty.
- The artist's signature was engraved on the reverse of the commemorative medal.
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Meaning 2
A relation of direct opposition; "we thought Sue was older than Bill but just the reverse was true".
Classification
Nouns denoting relations between people or things or ideas.
Examples
- I thought the weather would be cold but just the reverse was true, it was swelteringly hot.
- He predicted a huge loss, but the reverse happened and the company made a profit.
- The team had expected an easy win, but the reverse was the case and they lost badly.
- I assumed she was shy, but the reverse was true, she was incredibly outgoing.
- The economic forecast predicted a downturn, but the reverse happened and the market boomed.
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Meaning 3
(American football) a running play in which a back running in one direction hands the ball to a back running in the opposite direction.
Classification
Nouns denoting acts or actions.
Examples
- The quarterback handed off the ball to the running back, who then executed a reverse, pulling the defense in the opposite direction.
- The reverse play was a key element of the team's running game, often catching opponents off guard.
- After taking the handoff, the wide receiver turned around and sprinted back in the other direction, using the reverse to pick up 15 yards.
- The defense was completely fooled by the reverse, and the running back was able to break free for a 20-yard gain.
- The team's offense struggled to move the ball most of the game, but the reverse proved to be the spark they needed.
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Meaning 4
The gears by which the motion of a machine can be reversed.
Classification
Nouns denoting man-made objects.
Examples
- The car's transmission has a reverse gear that allows it to back up slowly.
- She put the vehicle in reverse to maneuver out of the tight parking space.
- The engineer worked on the reverse gear to make sure it was functioning properly.
- The driver shifted into reverse to get out of the congested area.
- The bus's reverse feature was important in the city's tight streets.
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Meaning 5
Turning in the opposite direction.
Classification
Nouns denoting acts or actions.
Examples
- The car screeched to a halt and then went into reverse, backing away from the curb.
- The pilot had to put the plane into a steep reverse to avoid the oncoming air traffic.
- After driving forward for hours, the driver was forced to reverse direction due to the road closure.
- The skater started in a forward motion but then transitioned into a reverse, gliding effortlessly backwards.
- The bike's gear grinder went into reverse, allowing the rider to shift into a higher gear.
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Meaning 6
An unfortunate happening that hinders or impedes; something that is thwarting or frustrating.
Classification
Nouns denoting natural events.
Examples
- The company suffered a reverse when their main investor pulled out, forcing them to downsize.
- The team was on a hot streak until they hit a reverse with the loss of their star player to injury.
- Her plans to start her own business were dealt a reverse when she was unable to secure funding.
- The environmental activists saw the government's decision as a reverse to their efforts to reduce pollution.
- The reverse he experienced in his personal life had a significant impact on his mental health.