penny-in-the-slot
Definition
Noun: - A coin-operated machine: "penny-in-the-slot" refers to a machine, such as a vending machine or an amusement device, that operates by inserting a penny (or a coin) into a slot. This term is often used as a compound noun to describe the mechanism or the machine itself.
Usage Examples
- (A vending machine that requires a penny for operation.)
- (A device that activates upon inserting a coin into its slot.)
Advanced Usage
- "Penny-in-the-slot" as an adjective: Sometimes used attributively to describe anything that operates on a coin-drop principle.
- The penny-in-the-slot mechanism was common in early 20th-century entertainment. (The system requiring a coin in a slot.)
Variants and Related Words
- Penny-in-the-slot machine (n): a full term for the device.
- The museum displayed a vintage penny-in-the-slot machine. (A coin-operated device.)
- Slot machine (n): a broader term for any coin-operated gambling or vending device, often without the "penny" specification.
- Modern slot machines use electronic tokens instead of pennies. (A coin-operated gaming device.)
Synonyms
- Coin-operated machine: a device that functions when a coin is inserted.
- Vending machine: a machine that dispenses goods in exchange for money.
Related Idioms
- "Put a penny in the slot": an idiomatic expression meaning to start or activate something, often used metaphorically.
- Let's put a penny in the slot and see what happens. (Let's initiate the process.)