When you’re in the middle of a long flight and you’ve checked in, cleared security, made your way to your gate, struggled with your overhead lockers and found your seat you’ll hear the captain say “We’re waiting for a slot.” But what does that mean?

A slot is a position within a group, series or sequence. It’s a term used in a variety of fields from business to sports. For instance, in hockey a slot is the area directly ahead and between two face-off circles. It’s a strategic position that allows speed players to go inside and outside of the circle, unlike boundary cornerbacks who only cover the arc of the wide receiver.

Slot is also the name of a computer software library that enables developers to create games for multiple platforms and operating systems. The library offers a wide range of features such as audio support, game play and graphics rendering. Slot also supports multiple languages, allowing developers to reach more customers worldwide.

The key to playing slots responsibly is knowing when to quit and walk away. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the game and lose track of time and money. This is why it’s important to set win/loss limits before you begin. Chasing losses will only deplete your bankroll and turn a fun pastime into a frustrating experience. It’s also a good idea to take regular breaks during your play sessions to prevent fatigue from impairing your judgement and decision-making abilities.