What does the idiom take a shower mean?

The idiom "take a shower" literally means to bathe oneself with water flowing from a showerhead. However, it can also be used in a more figurative sense, especially in American English, to refer to:

* Receiving a scolding or reprimand: For example, "The boss gave him a real shower for being late again."

* Experiencing a sudden and unexpected event, often negative: For example, "She took a shower when she found out her car was stolen."

It's important to pay attention to the context to determine which meaning is intended.