slot1

 
Pronunciation: /slɒt/

noun

  • 1a long, narrow aperture or slit in a machine for something to be inserted: he slid a coin into the slot of the jukebox
  • a groove or channel into which something fits or in which something works, such as one in the head of a screw: a screwdriver fitted into the slot
  • 2an allotted place in an arrangement or scheme such as a broadcasting schedule: a late-night television slot landing slots at Heathrow airport

verb (slots, slotting, slotted)

[with object and adverbial of direction]
  • place (an object) into a slot, typically one specifically designed to receive it: he slotted a cassette into the tape machine the plates come in sections that can be slotted together
  • [no object] be placed or able to be placed into a slot: the processors will slot into a personal computer
  • British informal (of a soccer player) score (a goal) with a precise shot: he slotted in the opening goal
  • [no object] (slot in/into) (of a person) fit easily into (a new role or situation): employers look for someone who will slot into the office culture
  • [with object] (slot someone/thing in) manage to find a time or opportunity to deal with someone or something: I can slot you in at 3.15, if that works for you

Derivatives

slotted

adjective
a screwdriver with a slotted head

Origin:

late Middle English (in the sense 'slight depression running down the middle of the chest', surviving as a Scots term): from Old French esclot, of obscure origin