The word "wakeup call" is spelled with two separate words: "wake" and "up". The first syllable "wake" is pronounced as /weɪk/, with a long "a" sound followed by a "k" sound. The second syllable "up" is pronounced as /ʌp/, with a short "u" sound and a "p" sound. The word "call" is pronounced as /kɔl/, with an "a" sound followed by an "l" sound. "Wakeup call" refers to an event, circumstance, or situation that serves as a rude or harsh reminder of reality or a needed change in behavior.
A wake-up call is a noun that refers to an event or experience that serves as a sudden, often jolting, realization or revelation, prompting a notable change in perspective, attitude, behavior, or awareness. The term originated from the practice of hotels or other establishments providing guests with a phone call at a requested time to awaken them from sleep. Figuratively, it denotes a metaphorical awakening or realization.
This term is commonly used to describe a situation or event that shocks or surprises someone, forcing them to reevaluate their beliefs, priorities, or actions. It often serves as a stark reminder or an alarming wake-up call to the consequences, dangers, or inadequacies of one's previous behavior or way of thinking.
For example, a sudden health scare may act as a wake-up call, making a person recognize the importance of taking care of their well-being or adopting healthier habits. Similarly, a financial crisis or near bankruptcy may serve as a wake-up call, motivating individuals to be more responsible or to reassess their spending and saving habits.
In broader contexts, the term is used to describe any experience or event that creates awareness or realization on a personal, societal, or global scale. Wake-up calls can lead to profound changes in individuals, relationships, organizations, and even society as a whole, steering them towards necessary transformations, growth, or progress.
The word "wakeup call" is a metaphorical expression that originated from the practice of having a hotel employee make a phone call to a guest to wake them up at a specific time. It is unclear when exactly this term was first used, but it is believed to have become popularized in the mid-20th century with the rise of telephones in hotels. The word "wake-up" refers to the act of rousing from sleep, and "call" refers to the telephone call made for this purpose. Over time, the term "wakeup call" has been figuratively extended to refer to any event or situation that prompts someone to become aware, alert, or take action.