A narrow notch, groove, or opening, as in a keyway in machinery, a slit for a coin in a vending machine, etc. Also called slit, aperture, hole, vent, and spot.
A position in a group, series, sequence, or set: The slots are numbered from left to right. In football, a position that enables a player to receive the ball from the quarterback for a running play. Often, the slot receiver is closer to the middle of the field and more vulnerable to big hits from defensive backs.
In computers, a set of data and instructions that controls a particular piece of hardware or software program: A virus may target the operating system’s slot, whereas a Trojan horse targets a specific application.
The part of a computer program that manages the operation of a machine: The slot identifies a specific combination of symbols in a payline, and when it finds it, it causes the reels to stop at those placements.
A visual display of the amount of money or credits a player has available to wager on a slot machine: A slot machine may have a single or multiple such displays, as well as information about the game’s bonus rounds and minimum and maximum bet amounts. Some machines have a separate feature round that allows players to select items on a screen for prizes, such as free spins or mystery gift boxes. Other machines use an automated mechanical device to award prizes.