Slot (noun)
A slot is a position in which a bolt, latch or other fitting can be locked into place. It is often used in conjunction with a nut or other fastener to secure an object in place. The word can also be used to describe an area in a machine that is able to hold a coin or other currency.
Many online slot players dive right in to playing their favorite game without even reading the pay table. This is a shame since understanding the game and knowing what symbols can potentially land on a winning combination makes for much more enjoyable play.
The pay table is the area on the screen that displays how the regular paying symbols in a slot work and their payout values. It may also display the bonus features and how to trigger them. Some slots use a different method for determining winning combinations than others, so it is important to read the pay table of each slot you play.
In order to spin the reels and win, the player must place a bet using real or virtual casino coins. Then, the random number generator (RNG) will select a series of numbers to determine where the symbols should land on each reel. The reels then spin and, if the symbols line up in a winning combination, the player receives a payout.