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.

---

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

---

Etymology

Origin of slot machine

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Though Rachel has restricted her own access to any sort of gambling sites, she does sometimes have the "pang" to go to the slot machine, but then remembers how far she has come.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

The bill also seeks to prohibit “casino-style games” from being listed on the platforms, such as slot machine games, video poker, blackjack and bingo.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

Mosseri was the first major Silicon Valley figure to appear before the jury to defend himself against accusations that Instagram functions as little more than a dopamine "slot machine" for vulnerable young people.

From Barron's • Feb. 11, 2026

“They see that slot machine, and they enter a hypnotic state,” he said of his target customer.

From Slate • Nov. 18, 2025

Casinos encourage this tendency by making sure that every quarter that’s won in a slot machine causes lights to blink and makes its own little tinkle in the metal tray.

From "Innumeracy: Mathematical Illiteracy and Its Consequences" by John Allen Paulos

Related Words

• vending machine