×

What Is a Slot?

slot

In computing, a slot is a spot on a server that can be allocated to a specific user. A slot might be used to store a database query or a web page. If a person is given a time slot to see a doctor, it means that he or she will have an appointment at that time.

In football, a slot receiver is the second wide receiver in a receiving corps. They are usually shorter than a typical wide receiver, but they must be tough enough to take big hits in the middle of the field and fast enough to blow past defenders on slant routes and sweeps. They must also be precise with their route running and have good chemistry with the quarterback.

On a slot machine, you press a button or pull a lever that activates the reels. The symbols on the reels then stop where they will, according to a random number generator (RNG). If these symbols line up on a payline, you receive a payout. The more likely these symbols are to line up, the higher the payout. The pay table is listed on the face of the machine, or, on newer machines, in a help menu.

Air traffic slots are allocations for planes to fly at certain times, usually when airports become constrained due to runway throughput or parking space (such as Heathrow). In recent years, airlines have been using slot management systems more broadly, with substantial savings in flight delays and fuel burn.