n.
Pronunciation: ri- ' v ə rs
Function: adjective
Etymology: Middle English revers, from Anglo-French, from Latin reversus, past participle of revertere to turn back ― more at REVERT
Date: 14th century
1 a : opposite or contrary to a previous or normal condition < reverse order> b (1) : having the back presented to the observer or opponent (2) : made with one's back to the basketball net <a reverse layup>
2 : coming from the rear of a military force
3 : acting, operating, or arranged in a manner contrary to the usual
4 : effecting reverse movement < reverse gear>
5 : so made that the part which normally prints in color appears white against a colored background
– re · verse · ly adverb