A narrow notch, groove, or opening, as a keyway in machinery or a slit for a coin in a vending machine.

The term slot may also refer to:

a position or period of time authorized for an airplane’s takeoff or landing at an airport, used in the United States and other countries to manage air traffic and prevent repeated delays that result from too many flights trying to land or depart simultaneously.

In modern casino operations, a slot is the area on the front or sides of a machine that holds coins and paper tickets with barcodes. A player inserts cash or, in “ticket-in, ticket-out” machines, a paper ticket with a barcode, then presses a lever or button (either physical or on a touchscreen) to activate the reels and reveal symbols, which earn credits based on a paytable. Most slot games have a theme, and the symbols and handles on the machine are designed to complement that theme.

A slot receiver is a type of football receiver who lines up a few yards behind the line of scrimmage and is responsible for running routes that intersect with those of the other wide receivers and tight ends on passing plays. They are also critical blockers on running plays, helping the running back to avoid being hit by defenders. Slot receivers are often faster than traditional wideouts and can run routes that zig-zag across the field to confuse defenses. They are also able to catch the ball in the middle of the field, avoiding the tacklers of opposing teams.