Natural (gambling)

A natural is a term in several gambling games; in each case it refers to one or two specific good outcomes, usually for the player, and often involves achieving a particular score in the shortest and fastest manner possible.

Examples

At blackjack, the best possible hand for the player is to reach a score of 21 with exactly two cards, which necessarily involves an Ace and a ten-valued card (such as a 10, a Jack, a Queen, or a King). This hand, which usually defeats any other hand of 21 and carries a higher payout of winnings, is referred to as a "blackjack" or a "natural". A natural in blackjack pays 3:2, however in recent years some casinos have changed the payout ratio to 6:5 for a larger house edge.

At craps, a natural is a roll of two dice with a score of 7 or 11 on the come out roll. This will lead to winnings for the players who wagered money on the "pass line" bet.

At punto banco, a natural is a two-card hand totaling 8 or 9, for either the player or the banker.