What Is a Slot?
A slot is a narrow opening into which something else can be fitted, such as a hole in a door for a lock or a slot in a machine where coins can be inserted. The meaning of “narrow opening into which something fits” is attested from 1520s; the sense of “position in a schedule or program” is recorded from 1942 (hence the name of slot car, attested 1966).
The pay table shows what you can win by landing three or more matching symbols on a payline. It also lists the rules of a slot game and gives details such as the RTP rate, betting requirements, symbols, bonus features, and jackpot amounts. Some pay tables are animated and fit in with the theme of a slot, while others may look like conventional paper documents.
In the NFL, teams have started relying more on slot receivers, who are typically shorter and faster than traditional wide receivers and help create mismatches against defenses. Slot receivers are often called “high-risk,” because they can break a big play quickly but also have the potential to blow up in a hurry if they’re not careful. As the number of slot receivers in the NFL has grown, so has the emphasis on their mental skills and ability to handle big plays. Slot receivers need to be smart and fast, and they must know how to read coverage and make adjustments on the fly. They also need to be able to play under pressure and avoid costly mistakes.
