A slot is a narrow aperture or groove. Examples include:

In a computer, a slot is a space reserved for expansion cards or for memory. In a video game, a slot is a position within a game’s frame where the player can place a token or other object to activate a special function.

The term slot is also used figuratively to refer to an allotment of something, such as a time or place. For example, you can “book a time slot” to make an appointment with someone. A person may also be described as having a “slot” in their job or career, especially one in which they are expected to perform well.

In a casino, a slot machine is a gambling device that accepts cash or, in “ticket-in, ticket-out” machines, paper tickets with barcodes that correspond to specific reel positions. When the reels stop spinning, a combination of symbols that match those on the pay table are displayed on the machine’s screen and the player earns credits based on the value of the matching symbols. Most slot games have a theme and bonus features that align with the theme. Psychologists have found that players of slot machines reach a debilitating level of addiction to the game more rapidly than those who play other types of gambling games. In the past, software errors on some slot machines have led to incorrect indicated jackpots. This has caused controversy over whether casinos should honour the payouts.