volte–face

noun \ˌvȯlt-ˈfäs, ˌvȯl-tə-\

: a complete change of attitude or opinion

Full Definition of VOLTE-FACE

: a reversal in policy : about-face

See volte–face defined for English-language learners

French, from Italian voltafaccia, from voltare to turn + faccia face, from Vulgar Latin *facia — more at volt, face

First Known Use: 1819

Synonyms: about-turn [British], flip-flop, reversal, turnabout, turnaround, U-turn, volte-face

Next Word in the Dictionary: voltigeurPrevious Word in the Dictionary: volte All Words Near: volte-face

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