A slot is a narrow opening, often in the form of a groove, notch, or slit. A slot can be anything from a copy desk interior that is used to hold papers by the chief copy editor to a bird’s opening between its wings. Slots help keep air flowing over the wing and are often used in airplane design to improve airflow. While the definition of a slot may vary from game to game, the basic definition remains the same.
In hockey, a slot is the fourth position on the ice. It is also a part of the flying display. Slot is derived from the Greek verb “sleutana,” which means “to put.” It is cognate with the German Schloss. It is also used in field hockey. But while slots are commonly associated with field hockey, they are not as common as some people would think. This is not to say that slot trenching is not possible.
The payback percentage of a slot machine is set at the factory when the software is written. If the player wants to change the payout percentage, they must physically swap the EPROM. This process can be very time-consuming, and is mandatory in certain jurisdictions, such as New Jersey. Changing the payout percentage may require the involvement of Gaming Control Board officials. For this reason, slot machines are not considered to be “ready to pay” until the Gaming Control Board approves it.