slot
UK[slɒt]US[slɑːt]
n
A long, narrow hole or opening into which something can be fitted.
n
A position, time, or opportunity in a schedule, system, or series.
v
To place or fit something into a slot.
Etymology
The word 'slot' entered Middle English from Old Norse, where it originally referred to a hollow or a bar used for slamming a door. Its journey reflects a common path for words describing simple, functional shapes. The core concept of a 'narrow aperture' persisted, and by the late 16th century, it was used for the groove in a machine. The modern abstract meanings, such as a scheduled time or a designated position, are metaphorical extensions from this physical sense, visualizing systems as having specific openings or places where items (like appointments or roles) can be inserted.
Analysis
This word is a simplex of Old Norse origin. It does not contain separable morphemes in modern English.
Examples
Insert the coin into the slot and press the button.
We have a slot available for a meeting at 3 PM.
The new program will slot neatly into our existing schedule.