A narrow depression, perforation or aperture, especially one for receiving something such as a coin or letter. Also used for a period of time or position within a schedule or sequence: I’ve booked your haircut for the 2 p.m. slot.

Linguistics: A position in a construction into which any of a set of morphemes can fit. Compare with filler (def 9) and gaper (def 10). In computing, a region of memory or disk space reserved for storing a particular type of object. I had to clear the entire cache for a new page to load in my browser’s slot.

Sports: The unmarked area in front of an opponent’s goal, affording a good vantage point for an attacking player. Also: The track or trail of a deer or other animal.

To assign someone or something to a slot: He was able to make his appointment after work, because he could slot it in between other meetings.

The etymology of slot is not entirely certain, but it is probably from Middle English esclot (“slit, hole, gap”), from Old French esclot, likely from Old Norse slod (“track”). The slot sense may be influenced by the slot machine (def 2), an early automaton that accepts coins and pays out prizes according to preprogrammed algorithms.

In figurative use, a slot is often used as a synonym for hole or crack, especially in a wall or roof. But it can also refer to a position or opportunity: She was disappointed that she didn’t get the job in Washington. I was told the company is looking for a full-time marketing specialist, but I’m afraid that’s not my slot. I’d rather do research or write books.