# invert

/ˌɪnˈvɝt/ (US) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/invert
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

to turn something upside down or inside out. In science, it can also mean changing the order of things or turning a positive into a negative.

For teachers: to turn something upside down, inside out, or in the opposite direction. In technical contexts, it refers to reversing the order of elements or the polarity of a signal.

## Examples

- The chef used a special tool to invert the cake onto a plate.
- The technician had to invert the image to match the original negative before printing the photograph.
- By inverting the traditional hierarchy of the organization, the new CEO hoped to foster a more collaborative environment where junior staff felt empowered to challenge senior decisions.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.