A narrow notch, groove or opening, as in a keyway in machinery or a slot for a coin in a vending machine. Also: a position in a group, series, or sequence; a job, berth, or billet.
A position in a football play where the receiver lines up directly with the ball carrier. Slot receivers are more likely to be targeted by opposing defenses than other receivers, especially on passing plays. They are also at a greater risk for injury than other receivers when they run routes that require them to move laterally across the field, such as sweeps or slants.
When you press a button or pull a lever on a slot machine, it spins the reels and compares the symbols that are showing to a paytable in order to determine whether or not you have won. The more matching symbols you have, the higher the payout. Some slots have stacked symbols, which are a group of symbols that cover an entire reel and increase your chances of landing on the winning combination.
Slot machines have come a long way from the simple pull-to-play mechanical versions of decades ago, and many casinos are now aglow with bright video screens and quirky themes. Before you sit down at a slot, read up on the various payouts and game rules. Some have a HELP or INFO button that will walk you through the different jackpots, play lines and bonus games. And, like all games of chance, it’s important to remember that the odds are against you.