Leet, often spelled "1337," is a term used to refer to a type of internet slang that replaces letters with numbers or other characters. The spelling of "leet" comes from the word "elite" and reflects the subversive nature of the language. In IPA phonetic transcription, "leet" is transcribed as /liːt/, with a long "e" sound at the beginning and a "t" sound at the end. The spelling of the word, while non-traditional, is a fitting representation of the unconventional nature of the language it is associated with.
• An anc. Anglo-Saxon court.
• In Scot., a selected list of candidates for any office.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "leet" is derived from the word "elite". It originated in the early 1980s within the computer hacking and gaming community. Leet, also known as "1337" or "leetspeak", is an alternative form of written communication that uses a combination of alphanumeric characters and symbols to replace letters. Initially, it was used as a way to avoid detection by computer systems and bypass censorship filters. Over time, it became popular within online gaming and internet forums as a distinct language and a way to showcase technical expertise or membership within a specific community.