One thousand three hundred thirty-seven — hacker speak

1337 (leet, from 'elite') — a system of replacing letters with numbers: A→4, E→3, L→1, T→7. Originated in the 1980s on BBS forums among hackers, became the first internet slang. '1337' means 'elite', a master of the craft.

'Leet' or '1337speak' is a system of replacing letters with similar-looking digits (A=4, E=3, I=1, O=0). It originated in the 1980s on BBS forums of hacker communities. The word 'elite' is written as '1337'. It became part of internet culture.

In 1337, English King Edward III claimed the French throne, starting the Hundred Years' War (1337–1453). This 116-year conflict forever changed the face of medieval Europe and forged French national identity.

In the gaming community, '1337' became synonymous with high skill. A '1337 gamer' is recognition of ability. The number 1337 appears in many game easter eggs, cheat codes, and clan names worldwide.

In online games of the 1990s–2000s, 'leet' denoted an experienced player. 'H4x0r' (hacker), 'n00b' (newbie), 'pwned' — this entire vocabulary grew from leet-speak. Today it is used as an ironic meme of old internet culture.

In 1337, the Hundred Years' War between France and England began — one of the largest medieval military conflicts, lasting until 1453. The war produced national heroes, including Joan of Arc.