Woken

The past participle of the verb 'wake,' meaning to cease sleeping and become aware or conscious. Figuratively, it signifies becoming aware of societal injustices, political issues, or hidden realities. It implies a shift in perspective, often prompting action or advocacy based on the newfound understanding. It highlights a state of enlightenment or realization, moving beyond ignorance or naivety.

Woken meaning with examples

• After the documentary, many viewers felt deeply woken to the environmental devastation caused by industrial farming. They started making changes to their lifestyles to become more sustainable, such as becoming vegetarian, and reducing their consumption of plastic.
• She felt truly woken to the systemic biases in the workplace after attending a diversity and inclusion workshop, realizing the inequality present that she was previously unaware of, causing her to now speak out against it.
• Years of research had woken the scientists to the alarming reality of climate change, leading them to dedicate their lives to finding and explaining solutions to the world to combat its harmful effects.
• The protest against police brutality woken the community up to the importance of holding law enforcement accountable for their actions, leading to policy reforms and further calls for change.
• Having been shielded from the harsh realities of poverty, his volunteer work at the homeless shelter woken him to the struggles of others and spurred a lifelong commitment to helping those in need. His family were very proud.