In general:
Change of the input signal that is necessary to generate a measurable change in the output variable, if the input signal is changed from a static point in the same direction in which the static point was approached (DIN 24 311) (Figure U 14).
In measuring technology:
Quantitative statement of the appearance of hysteresis of a measuring instrument. The reversal error is equal to the difference between the output variable x a, which is given for the same value of the input variable x e if it is slowly reached once by increasing (x a) and once by decreasing (x’a““) either continuously or incrementally. A specific measuring instruction is required for quantitative statements (VDI 2600).
Figure U 14: Reversal error