A slit or other narrow opening, especially one for receiving something, as a coin or letter. Also figuratively, a position or assignment within a group, series, or sequence.

In slots, players insert cash or, in the case of “ticket-in, ticket-out” machines, a paper ticket with a barcode. The machine then activates reels that spin and stop to rearrange symbols. When a winning combination appears, the player earns credits according to the paytable. Depending on the game, payouts may be awarded for matching symbols, scatters, wilds, progressive jackpots, free spins, bonus games, and more.

The most common type of slot is the three-reel machine, which has a classic look and simple gameplay. It is possible to win big on these machines, but it takes skill and knowledge. Some slots allow players to choose the number of paylines, while others automatically wager on all available lines.

In ornithology, a small notch between the tips of the primaries of certain birds, which allows air to flow smoothly over the wings during flight. Also figuratively, a place or time in which an airplane can take off or land, as authorized by an airport or air-traffic control authority: 40 more slots were added at U.S. airports. Also, in ice hockey, an unmarked area in front of the opponent’s goal, affording a vantage point for attacking players. American Heritage® Roget’s Thesaurus 2013 Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. All rights reserved.