What Is a Slot?

A slot is a specific time (or a portion of a time) for an aircraft to take off or land at an airport. It is a tool used in the United States and around the world to manage air traffic flow at extremely busy airports, and it helps to prevent repeated delays that often occur when too many flights attempt to take off or land at the same time.

A slot receiver is a wide receiver that lines up slightly in the backfield pre-snap, a few steps off the line of scrimmage. This position gives the receiver a better ability to run routes, as well as block, than outside receivers do. It is also a crucial position for running plays, as the slot allows the receiver to be lined up in a spot that is necessary for sweeps and slant runs to be successful.

In computer technology, a slot refers to the way that a processor is connected to a motherboard. In the past, slot processors were designed to make upgrading a machine easier, but this type of technology is now obsolete and replaced by socket processors.

A slot is a small amount paid out on a regular basis by a slot machine, usually to keep players interested in the game and increase their spending. This is contrasted with a jackpot, which is a large sum of money that can be won by spinning the reels. It is a good idea to set a budget before playing slots and to stick to it.