inversion
n. C / Un. a change in the normal order or position of something. In grammar, it often means putting the verb before the subject to ask a question or add emphasis.
n. the reversal of the normal order, position, or relationship of components within a structure. In linguistics, it specifically refers to the placement of the verb or auxiliary before the subject.
The question 'Are you?' shows subject-verb inversion.
The writer used grammatical inversion to create a more dramatic and formal tone in the opening chapter.
Meteorological inversion occurs when a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, often leading to a significant buildup of smog in urban basins.
From Latin inversiōnem.
Often used with 'of' to specify what is being reversed ('inversion of roles', 'inversion of the subject').