slot machine

American  

noun

1. a gambling machine operated by inserting coins into a slot and pulling a handle that activates a set of spinning symbols on wheels, the final alignment of which determines the payoff that is released into a receptacle at the bottom.

2. any machine operated by inserting coins into a slot, as a vending machine.

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slot machine British  

noun

1. a machine, esp one for selling small articles or for gambling, activated by placing a coin or metal disc in a slot

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Etymology

Origin of slot machine

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Ubl spent 10 hours a day on his vacation building new software and said each run gave him an endorphin rush akin to playing a Vegas slot machine.

From The Wall Street Journal

Or is it a game of chance, such as slot machines and most table games?

From Los Angeles Times

All of that makes it harder for Santa Anita to attract top horses from those states, which increase purses with money from slot machines or casinos, something not available to California tracks.

From Los Angeles Times

Inspectors are, among other things, meant to check for the permitted number and ratio of B3 slot machines, which offer up to £500 in prize money.

From BBC

A sleepy community center offers slot machines, pool and darts.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• vending machine