Wake-up call

Pronunciation: /ˈweɪk- ˈəp ˈkɔɫ/

Wake-up call (noun)

  1. A signal that makes you get up, often in the morning, such as a phone alarm or a hotel alarm.
  2. An event or fact that shows a problem clearly and makes people change their behaviour or plans.

Examples

  • The wake-up call rings at dawn, so I get up on time.
  • A wake-up call helps me start work early without missing the bus.