A slot is the name for a time-limited window of opportunity. For example, a time slot might be available to buy tickets for a movie. A player can also use a slot to play a video game.

There are two types of slots: fixed and free. Fixed slots have a set number of paylines that can’t be changed, while free slots allow players to choose how many pay lines they want to activate. More pay lines mean more potential winning combinations, but they also increase the cost of each spin.

In football, a slot corner is responsible for covering the slot receiver, which is usually one of the fastest wide receivers on the team. A good slot corner can run precise routes and block outside linebackers, making them effective against both deep and short passing patterns.

If you’re new to playing slots, it’s important to understand the basics of how these machines work. First, you need to find out the minimum bet amount. This information should be displayed on the machine’s touchscreen or, in the case of older machines, on the slit you slide your money into.

Slots are allocated by EUROCONTROL to airlines that need to operate at constrained airports. They help to reduce flight delays and fuel burn. In the long term, they will also help to manage air traffic and congestion.