slot

Definition

A narrow depression, perforation, or aperture; especially, one for the reception of a piece fitting or sliding into it.

Etymology

From Middle English slot, from Old French esclot, likely from Old Norse slóð (“track”). As a gambling machine, via clipping of slot machine. Compare sleuth. The scheduling (calendar) sense is by a metaphor whereby the time span is equated with the segment of a page or part of a device that represents it.

Example Sentences

• "insert tab A into slot B"
• "I've booked your haircut for the 2 p.m. slot."
• "With a strong finish he ended up in the third-ranked slot overall."