obverse
UK/'ɒbvә:s/US
GREC2
Definitions
n.
The front or principal side of a coin or medal (bearing the head); the counterpart or opposite of something.
（硬币/奖章）正面；对应面，反面
adj.
Facing the observer; being the counterpart.
正面的；对应的
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedob- (toward, facing) + verse (turn) = 'turned toward you.' The obverse of a coin is the side turned to face you — the 'heads' side. By extension, the obverse of an idea is its facing counterpart.
Root vers still carries 91 more wordsUsage Guide
On coins, obverse = 'heads' (the front, usually with a head or emblem); reverse = 'tails' (the back). It's a formal/technical term, mostly seen in numismatics and academic writing.
Example Sentences
- 1.
The queen's portrait appears on the obverse of the coin.
- 2.
Freedom and responsibility are the obverse of each other.