A narrow notch, groove, or opening, such as a keyway in a machine or the slit for coins in a vending machine. Also: a position in a sequence, series, or program. For example, you might schedule a meeting with someone in the slot immediately following your presentation.

A player inserts cash or, in “ticket-in, ticket-out” machines, a paper ticket with a barcode into a slot on the machine and activates it by pressing a lever or button (either physical or on a touchscreen). The reels then spin and stop to rearrange symbols, and if the player matches a winning combination, they earn credits based on the paytable. Many slot games have a theme, and the symbols and bonus features usually align with that theme.

The Slot receiver is a vital part of the blocking game on running plays designed to go to the outside of the field. He must be able to block (or at least chip) nickelbacks, outside linebackers, and safeties, as well as be on the same page with the quarterback when reading coverage. Moreover, he must be able to run shorter routes on the route tree, such as slants and quick outs, that allow him to stretch the defense vertically.

Slot receivers are becoming more prominent in the NFL, as more teams look to utilize smaller, speedier wideouts who can stretch defenses with their pure speed. They can also complement bigger, more traditional receivers by running shorter routes on the route tree, such as curls and snaggles. However, it’s important to note that not all slot receivers are created equal. Some have better receiving abilities than others, and some even have a better ability to block.