What does reversion mean?
Reversion names the process of returning to an earlier state, condition, form, or way of behaving. In general usage, it often suggests that a change has been undone or that a previous arrangement has been restored, sometimes with a sense of criticism or disappointment: a policy change may be described as a reversion to old practices. The word is also used in biology, where a reversion is a genetic or developmental change that restores a trait seen in an earlier generation. In technical contexts, it can refer to a return to a prior version of software or configuration. Although similar to reversal, reversion places particular emphasis on the earlier state being recovered.
The act or process of returning to a previous state, condition, or form.
"The editor criticized the change as a reversion to an outdated style of reporting."
Often used for an unwanted or unexpected return, though it can also describe a deliberate restoration.
A biological mutation or developmental change that restores an earlier form or characteristic.
"The unusual coloring of the plants was caused by a genetic reversion."
This is a technical biological sense.
Plural reversions refers to multiple instances of returning to an earlier state or to mutations that restore an earlier form.
"The project experienced several reversions to its original design."
In biology, a reversion can undo a mutation: an altered organism that unexpectedly resembles an earlier generation.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does reversion come from?
The word comes through Middle English from Old French reversion, derived from Latin reversio, a turning back or return. Latin reversio was formed on re-, meaning back, and vertere, meaning to turn. Many English words sharing this root, including reverse, convert, diverse, and adverse, developed from the same Latin verb.
Related word forms
How reversion is actually used
The term is relatively formal and is especially common in historical, political, technical, and biological writing. It often implies that the earlier state has been regained, whether deliberately or not.
Easily confused with reversion
Reversal generally describes a change back from one direction or condition to another, whereas reversion more specifically implies returning to an earlier state, form, or mode of behavior.