The term “slot” has many meanings. First, it refers to the hollow at the base of the throat, just above the breastbone. The word has uncertain origins; it is related to Old French esclot and Old Norse slod. The term “slot” was first recorded in the 1520s, but the word “slot machine” doesn’t appear until 1888. In the modern sense, it refers to a slotted metal tray or machine.
In ice hockey, the slot is a rectangular area between the face-off circles, extending toward the blue line. A player may score from this area, as long as he is able to see the net straight on. However, a low slot is ideal for wrist shots, as a defender will establish the slot as no man’s land, thus preventing a player from gaining an advantage in the scoring area. In the field, a player may be positioned near the goalie in a low slot, which will allow him a clearer view of the net.
The payback percentage on a slot machine is the percentage of money put into the machine that is paid out to the player. In other words, if the machine pays out 90 percent of the money put in, then the casino will keep only 10 percent and give the remainder to the player. Any payback percentage under one hundred is a win for the casino. So, it makes sense to consider the payback percentage when playing slots. There are some disadvantages to this, but it’s better than nothing, especially if you’re trying to make money.