Slot

A slot is an opening in a structure, such as an airplane wing or wind turbine blade, through which air can pass. It may also refer to:

A position in a group, series, or sequence; a window, spot, or opportunity; an appointment, berth, billet, or job; the time or space available to perform a task. (American Heritage(r) Roget’s Thesaurus, Copyright 2013 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishers)

Modern slot machines, which use video screens instead of mechanical reels and accept player loyalty cards rather than coins, are the driving force behind casino expansion campaigns across the country. In some states, where casinos compete to attract visitors from far away cities, slots generate upward of three-quarters of all gambling revenue. The machines are known for their dazzling visual effects and energizing music, which keep players glued to their seats. Psychologists have found that people who play video slots become addicted to gambling at a rate three times faster than those who play card games or bet on sports.