In computer science, a slot (plural: slots) is an opening in a device that accepts an expansion card with circuitry to add capabilities. Originally, these cards contained only data storage, but modern ones also provide video acceleration, sound, and disk drive control. Many computer motherboards have a series of slots for these cards. In other devices, a slot is a narrow notch or groove, as in a keyway in a piece of machinery or a slit for a coin in a vending machine.

In football, a player is said to be in the slot when he lines up directly between a boundary cornerback and the nearest line of scrimmage. This position allows a speed receiver to run unimpeded by coverage, and it is often used in pass-heavy offenses.

Psychologist Robert Breen has found that people who play slots become addicted to gambling three to four times faster than those who gamble on sports or cards. However, the gaming industry argues that these machines are only fueling a tiny fraction of the problem. And the truth is, while the game may be addictive, it’s also very profitable for casinos. Slots generate upward of three-quarters of all casino revenue, and even in so-called destination resort casinos, they bring in twice as much as table games or card games. That’s why casino managers are afraid to raise the house edge on these games too much, fearing that players will detect subtle price increases and leave for a competitor.