The phrase "real wake" means experiencing the true and genuine feeling of sadness and grief after someone dies. It refers to attending a funeral or memorial service where people mourn and pay their respects. Full definition
«These changes in the retail landscape are a real wake - up call,» Doucette says. (canadianbusiness.com)
Facebook users got a real wake - up call this week, according to Mezrich, whose best - selling book was made into the movie «The Social Network.» (cnbc.com)