What is a Slot?
A narrow notch or groove, as in a keyway in a machine or a slit for coins in a vending machine. Also, a position in a series or sequence, such as a time slot on a calendar.
Slot can also refer to:
An opening in an aircraft’s wing or tail used for a control device. The term can also describe the way in which a part or feature fits into or onto something else, such as when you “slot” a computer expansion card into its corresponding slot on a motherboard.
In a gambling establishment, the amount paid out by a slot machine for winning combinations of symbols. It may be a percentage of the total amount wagered, or it may be a fixed amount. In brick-and-mortar casinos, slot machines are usually located near the entrance.
The reels of a slot machine that spin and display symbols when you press the button to activate them. Traditionally, only one symbol appears on each reel, but modern slots often have multiple symbols appearing on each spin. The symbols vary from classics like cherries and number sevens to more complex icons, including TV shows, comic book heroes, and even rock stars. Some slots even have a storyline that runs through the game, with special symbols that trigger different bonus rounds.
In the world of online casino gaming, a slot is an individual game window. Each slot has its own jackpot, minimum and maximum bets, paylines, and other features. Many slots are themed after popular TV shows or movies, while others offer a chance to win big prizes by spinning a wheel of fortune. Some slots have a progressive jackpot, which increases with every bet placed.
A computer expansion slot, a set of closely spaced pinholes on a motherboard that accept circuit boards to add functionality such as video acceleration and disk drive control. Most desktop computers come with a set of expansion slots.
Air traffic management slots are a type of allocation granted to airlines for flying at specific times when airport capacity is constrained. The use of slots has been shown to reduce delays and fuel burn, and is now being extended worldwide.
In football, a player who is assigned the responsibility of covering both a defensive back (DB) and a wide receiver (WR). A slick-footed slot receiver can make difficult plays look easy for the opposing defense. He is an important member of any team’s offense.