What is a Slot?

A slot is a hollow at the base of the throat above the breastbone. The word “slot” dates back to the late 14c. It comes from the Old French esclot, a word of uncertain origin. Other possible origins include the Old Norse word slod. The word first appears in English in the 1520s, but its current meaning is not clear. The word “slot” is also a synonym for deer track. A bloodhound is trained to follow the slot of a wounded deer.

The term “slot” has two meanings in hockey: it is a position and a type of shot. In ice hockey, a slot is a rectangular area that extends toward the blue line. In field hockey, a slot is the fourth position in a flying display. The word “slot” is related to the Greek verb *sleutana, and it is cognate with the German Schloss. A well-placed one-timer from the high slot is among the best shots in hockey.

In Russia, slot clubs first appeared in 1992. Before this date, slots were only found in casinos or small shops. The slots became popular in the country, with popular symbols such as Taj Mahal and Vulcan 777 being the most popular. After the ban of gambling establishments in Russia in 2009, these clubs disappeared, except for a few specially-licensed gambling zones. Today, slot machines are classified by the Gambling Act 2005 and Gambling Commission.