English vocabulary · C1
Obverse
/ˈɒbvɜːrs/ · n., adj.
It means the front side of a coin or flat object. It is the main face — the side meant to be seen first.
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Example sentences
- The obverse of the coin shows a president's face.
- Flip it over — the obverse has the date and the main design.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- ob — toward (from Latin)
- verse — turn (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- FRONT — the side facing you (General & Everyday)
- FACE — the main decorated side (Design & Portrait)
- HEAD — heads side of a coin (Informal Coin Talk)
Words with the same root
verse — turn
- reverse — the opposite side or direction
- diverse — many different kinds
- version — one form of something
Lesson notes
Obverse. It means the front side of a coin or flat object. It is the main face — the side meant to be seen first.
Similar words are front, face, and head. Use obverse when naming the main side of a coin or flat object.
The obverse of the coin shows a president's face. Flip it over — the obverse has the date and the main design.
From Latin. ob- means toward. verse- means turn. The side turned toward you: that is the obverse.