The word “slot” is an adjective that describes a particular grammatical function on a web page. It can be active or passive. In either case, a slot’s content is determined by the scenario (a code or action that specifies how to display content). For example, a scenario can specify the assignment of a copy editor to a position in a newspaper, such as chief copy editor. A slot also refers to a position at an airport or a government agency, like an air traffic authority.
The term “slot” is derived from the late 14c. and originally described a hollow at the base of a man’s throat, or above his breastbone. It is a loanword from Old French esclot, which is of uncertain origin. Another synonym of “slot” is slod, which came from Old Norse. The word “slot” first appeared in print in the 1520s, although the meaning of the word “slot machine” dates back to the 1880s.
In ice hockey, the slot refers to the area between the faceoff circles in the offensive zone. There are two different definitions for a slot, namely the low slot (right in front of the goaltender) and the high slot (above the faceoff circles).