A slot is a narrow notch or groove, as in the keyway of a machine tool or the slit for a coin in a vending machine. Also:

A position or time slot, as assigned by an airport or air-traffic control authority for the taking off or landing of a commercial aircraft. Also:

In slot machine play, the symbols and paylines are displayed on a screen, along with how much you can bet. Depending on the game, the pay table may be illustrated with images or text to help explain the rules in a clear way. Bonus features may be explained as well, from free spins to mystery pick games and outer-space cluster payoffs (in place of traditional paylines).

While it is impossible to know how any given slot will work until you play it, there are some basic tips you can use to maximise your chances of success. The first is to have a plan: decide how much you want to spend in advance, and stick to it. Also, be aware that any wins are random, so you should never expect to win big every time you play.

A slot receiver is a wide receiver who lines up close to the line of scrimmage. These players are smaller than boundary receivers and are typically used to stretch the defense vertically. This makes them effective on quick out routes, slants, and quick ins. A slot cornerback is a specific type of defensive back who specializes in covering these types of receivers.