A small hole or opening, especially one that is used for receiving coins or other objects. Also known as slot or slit.
A narrow opening, gap, or channel in a body part, such as an armpit or groin. (Compare with duct.)
The space in a computer or other machine in which a disk or other object is inserted. Also known as a slot or drive.
In a video game, a place where the player can save their progress. These spaces are usually indicated by an icon that resembles a disk or drive. Each slot may be assigned its own name and size, but some are more universally recognized than others.
Originally, slots were very simple, allowing a limited number of combinations and jackpots. Manufacturers changed that in the 1980s, when they began to incorporate electronics. The new microprocessors enabled them to weight symbols on each reel, so that winning and losing symbols appeared more or less frequently on the payline displayed to the player.
Modern machines have many different pay tables and can offer many types of bonus features. In addition to displaying the symbols and payout values, they often contain information on how the player can trigger these features and what they entail. This information is usually located above and below the reels on older machines, but on video slots it may be contained within a help menu or other similar location. Whether they are playing for money or points, it is important that players understand how to choose the right type of slot and how to use it effectively.
