eyeopener
/ˈaɪoʊˌpɛnər/Definitions
1. noun
an event or experience that surprises or enlightens someone, often in a shocking or unpleasant way
“The news of the layoffs was a big eyeopener for the employees.”
2. noun
a drink, especially coffee, that is drunk in the morning to help one wake up
“A cup of hot coffee is a good eyeopener on a cold winter morning.”
3. verb
to make someone understand something surprising or unpleasant
“The new policy will eyeopen many employees about the company’s financial situation.”