A slot is a place or time that is assigned for something. In aviation, a slot is an air-traffic control authorization to land or take off from a specific airport. It can also refer to a position in an organization or hierarchy, such as a job or rank.

The 1899 Liberty Bell machine, invented by Charles Fey, is now a California Historical Landmark. This type of machine is different from modern slot machines, as it features a mechanical reel. Modern slot machines use digital technology, allowing for a variety of features. The most popular are video games, which provide a wide range of themes and jackpots.

To win a slot game, you must hit matching symbols on an active payline. This can be done with a single coin or multiple coins, depending on the game. Often, there are extra ways to win, including scatters and bonus symbols. The amount you win depends on the game’s return-to-player percentage, or RTP. A high RTP means you have a greater chance of winning, while a low one means you’re less likely to win.

In football, a slot receiver is a player who lines up close to the line of scrimmage, which makes them vulnerable to big hits from defensive backs. However, they are in a better spot to receive the ball for running plays and are crucial for slant runs and sweeps. The term ‘slot’ is also used in computer programming, to describe the location of a variable in a data structure.