A slot is a narrow opening or groove, especially one in which something fits. A slot in a door or window is usually narrower than a hole. (informal) To put something into a slot, especially a place in a program or schedule. I was able to get a time slot for an appointment at the museum.
A slot on a computer is an area where a user can store files. This can be useful if you need to save space or do not want to keep all your programs on the main drive of your computer.
In the game of hockey, the slot is the area directly in front of the goaltender between the face-off circles. A defenseman who shoots from the slot can rip a blistering slap shot that is difficult for even the best goalie to stop.
On a casino slot machine, players insert cash or, in the case of ticket-in, ticket-out machines, a paper ticket with a barcode into a designated slot on the machine and activate the reels by pushing a lever or button. When a winning combination is made, the player earns credits based on the paytable. Some slots have a Wild symbol that substitutes for other symbols to create winning combinations.
There are many different strategies for playing slots, but most of them do not work because electronic and online slots use randomizing software to determine the placement of symbols on the reels. The only real way to increase your chances of winning is by understanding the paylines, in-game bonuses and features, and playing on free mode before you start spending your own money.