1. hole, groove, slit, opening, or position that is used to admit something, especially a wire, cable, or rope. He slotted the wire into place.

2. to insert, fit, or put into a slot. She slotted a fresh filter into the machine.

3. to make a cut, groove, or slit in something. He cut a deep slot into the side of the box.

4. to arrange or align things in a particular way. He slotted the pieces together into a row.

5. to move a piece of wood, metal, or other material into the proper place. He slotted the plate into place over the studs.

6. to fit or slide into a space, position, or slot. She slotted the plate into place over the joists.

7. to cut a slot or slit into a piece of wood, metal, or plastic. He slotted the metal into the wooden frame.

Casino floors are alight with towering machines that offer up bright video screens, loud sounds, and quirky themes. But experts warn that they may be wasting your money. Instead of wasting time trying to win at every machine, pick one type and play it well. That will help you avoid the most common mistakes and walk away with more money than you came with.

Whether mechanical or electronic, slot machines rely on engineering acumen and mathematical know-how to appear simple while disguising their true inner workings from the public. They’re designed to attract players by combining the alluring appearance of a mechanical machine with the promise of quick and easy winnings. But even the most sophisticated machine has its limitations.

Charles Fey is credited with inventing the first three-reel slot machine in 1899. A plaque marks the site of his San Francisco workshop, which is now a California Historical Landmark.

Modern slot machines use random-number generators to determine the outcome of each spin. These computer chips generate dozens of numbers every second and assign each possible combination a different number. Then, when the machine receives a signal (anything from a button being pressed to a handle being pulled), it sets the reels to stop on that combination.

While it’s tempting to chase a jackpot you think is due, remember that the result of any spin at any slot game is completely random. Only those combinations that reach a payline will receive a payout. And while some slots are more likely to hit than others, that’s only because other players walked away just as the jackpot was about to be paid out. Unless you’re playing at a machine where other players have already cashed out, there’s no way to know when the jackpot is due to pay out. And that’s no reason to stay and try your luck. Just cash out and find another machine. Then you’ll have some money to gamble with on your next visit to the casino. Alternatively, play online and watch video reviews of games. They’ll usually include the designer’s target payout percentages.