A slit or narrow opening, especially one for receiving something, as a coin or a letter.

In the computer industry, a slot is a place for an expansion card (such as an ISA or PCI), or a memory module. The term can also refer to an opening in the front panel of a desktop or tower computer, into which you can plug in various components.

Several types of slots exist. For example, there are penny, nickel, and quarter slots—these are the biggest moneymakers for casinos, but they’re not always profitable for players. Then there are video slots, which feature high-quality graphics and gameplay that can be more engaging than the traditional mechanical reels of older machines. Finally, there are virtual reality slots that offer an immersive and interactive gaming experience.

The word “slot” can be applied to many different things, but in the context of an airline, it’s an allocated time for an airplane to land or take off at a congested airport. A slot gives an airline the right to operate flights at certain times and can be traded on the stock market, as was the case with a valuable European air traffic management slot that was sold for $75 million in 2016. Whether or not you’re a gambler, learning about slots can help you plan your travels better and avoid unnecessary delays when you’re flying. Just be sure to read the rules of each game you play before you deposit any money.