Definition

What is Slot?

A designated area within a component where content can be swapped or overridden in instances, enabling flexible content composition while maintaining structure.

Why It Matters

Slots are the secret to flexible component composition. Instead of creating dozens of card variants (card with image, card with icon, card with illustration), you create one card with an "image slot" that can be swapped. This reduces component count while increasing flexibility—any frame can go in the slot.

Examples

1

A card component with a "Media Slot" where designers can place images, illustrations, or icons.

2

A modal with a "Content Slot" that accepts any combination of text, forms, or custom content.

3

A navigation item with an "Icon Slot" that can be swapped with different icons per menu item.

Explore More Design Terms

Browse our complete glossary of Figma and design systems terminology.