slot machine

noun

1
: a machine whose operation is begun by dropping a coin into a slot
2
: an originally coin-operated gambling machine that pays off according to the matching of symbols on wheels spun by a handle
also : an electronic version of this machine

Examples of slot machine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The slot machines also teach us a lot about the power sensory engagement. — Chip Bell, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2026 An early version of the Orb, which looked like a miniature Death Star, spat out physical coins, like a slot machine, presumably to make the point about the quid pro quo to people who might not quite comprehend blockchain. — Jill Lepore, New Yorker, 10 Aug. 2026 Visitors can win the chips at a human slot machine or pose with the Route 11 mascot, Rudy, a giant potato head. — Kinsey Gidick, Travel + Leisure, 27 July 2026 The casino has over 800 slot machines for those feeling lucky after watching their team secures a victory. — Taylor Haught, Miami Herald, 23 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for slot machine

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of slot machine was in 1891

Rhymes for slot machine

See All Rhymes for slot machine

Browse Nearby Words

slot-lip aileron
slot machine
slot man
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Slot machine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/slot%20machine. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

slot machine

noun
1
: a machine whose operation is begun when a coin is dropped into a slot
2
: a coin-operated gambling machine that pays off for the matching of symbols on wheels spun by a handle

More from Merriam-Webster on slot machine

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about slot machine

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