A slot is a dynamic placeholder that waits for content to be added to it (a passive slot) or calls out for that content to be added to it via the Add Items to Slot action or a targeter (active slot). Slots work in tandem with scenarios to deliver content to pages; renderers specify how that content will be presented.
A device on a gambling machine that displays reels and pays out prizes when certain combinations of symbols line up. Some slots also have special features, such as Wilds that substitute for other symbols or Multi-game slots that allow players to choose between several different types of games. Some slots pay out progressive jackpots.
In the context of air traffic management, a scheduled time for an aircraft to take off or land at a busy airport, allocated by the airline and authorized by an airport or air-traffic controller. Slots are used to avoid repeated delays from flights attempting to take off or land at the same time, and to reduce fuel burn by keeping aircraft on the ground when they could be flying.
A slot can also refer to a position or job, such as the chief copy editor of a newspaper. It can also refer to a place on an airplane, or a gap between the wings of an insect, especially a butterfly, that allows it to maintain a steady flow of air over its body. In ice hockey, a slot is a position in front of the goal that affords a player a good view of the opposing team’s net.