A slot is a dynamic placeholder on a web page that either waits for content to be added (a passive slot) or calls out to the renderer to fill it in (an active slot). It is used in conjunction with scenarios and targeters to control what happens when they are executed.

In a slot machine, a player inserts cash or, in “ticket-in, ticket-out” machines, a paper ticket with a barcode and then activates a reel mechanism that reveals symbols to match those on the pay table, which lists the amount of credits a player will receive if they win. Most slot games have a theme and feature symbols that fit that theme. Some have a bonus game and other special features that align with the theme as well.

Psychologists have also found that people enjoy playing slots because they are arousing and attention-grabbing, thereby distracting players from painful emotional experiences. These distractions, however, may also make them more likely to engage in harmful behaviors.

When machining a slot, it is often desirable to minimize tool deflections, vibration, and heat buildup. In this case, a process called plunging is sometimes used. In this technique, the entire slot is machined solely by axial cuts, which are faster than other toolspath methods and require minimal radial forces on the tool. However, this method does not produce a good surface finish and is not suitable for long or deep slots. It is also less productive than other cutting methods.