A slot is a narrow aperture or groove, as in a keyway in a lock or the slit for coins in a machine. It may also refer to a position in a group, series, or sequence. The word comes from the Dutch sleutel, which means “bolt” or “lock.” It is cognate with Middle Low German slotte (“bolt”) and Old High German sleutana (“to lock”).

In modern machines, slots are typically digital and use microprocessors to determine which symbols line up on the pay lines and how much the player wins. The pay tables for each machine are usually listed on the face of the machine or, in the case of ticket-in, ticket-out machines, within a help menu. Most slot games have a theme, and the symbols and bonus features are generally aligned with that theme.

The term slot is also used to refer to a position on a team, as in the position of a wide receiver. A slot receiver is a receiver who specializes in receiving short passes and gaining yards after the catch. These players are normally shorter and stockier than traditional wide receivers, but they must be quick and tough to excel in the slot.

Slot receivers also need to have excellent route running skills and a good understanding of the game of football. They must be able to anticipate where defenders are going and make adjustments accordingly. They are a crucial part of the offensive playbook, and many teams have multiple slot receivers on their rosters.

A slot is an area of the aircraft’s wing or tail that houses a control surface. The shape and size of a slot vary from aircraft to aircraft, but they are always located in close proximity to the main lift strut or fuselage. In addition to providing stability, a slot can be used to reduce drag by allowing air to flow more easily over the upper surface of the aircraft.

Another important feature of a slot is that it allows for increased efficiency and fuel economy. Aircraft designers have long sought to optimize the placement and shape of the slots in their designs. They are often located in areas that can be accessed from the cockpit, such as in the ailerons or flaps, and provide improved performance without increasing the size of the aircraft.

The number of slots allocated to airlines each season is based on the previous year’s total passenger count and the number of available slots. These factors are considered by the airline industry, which is eager to increase capacity as quickly as possible, especially during periods of economic crisis. It is therefore not unusual for airlines to pay millions of dollars for coveted early morning landing slots. This is particularly true for those who operate routes in congested airports.