What is a Slot?

A narrow notch, groove, or opening, as a keyway in machinery or a slit for a coin in a vending machine. Also: a position in a group, series, sequence, or program, especially one that allows for activity at a specific time or place: She slotted the new filter into the machine.

A hole in the wing of an airplane or the tail surface, used for a high-lift device or for air flow control. In aviation, slots are used to limit the number of flights that can take off or land at busy airports on a given day and during a given hour, in order to avoid repeated delays caused by too many aircraft trying to operate at the same time.

In a cable street-railroad, a narrow continuous opening in the rails through which a grip on an automobile car passes to connect with the traveling cable. Also called a slit, a trapdoor, or a cut.

In a slot machine, a narrow opening in which a coin or other token is inserted to spin the reels and pay out credits based on the symbols that line up on the pay line. Different types of slot machines have different payout percentages, and some even offer jackpots that can be millions of dollars. When playing a slot machine, always remember to gamble responsibly and set a budget before beginning to play. If you are having trouble controlling your gambling urges, consider seeking professional help.