Leet Speak Generator
Convert normal text into 1337 sp34k style instantly. Choose from basic, classic or extreme leet levels. Free, browser-based.
What is Leet Speak?
Leet speak (also written "1337" or "l33t") is an internet slang alphabet that substitutes letters with visually similar numbers and symbols. It originated in the early days of online bulletin boards and hacker culture, where "elite" users would use it to communicate in a way that confused outsiders or automated moderation. Today it is mostly used for humour, usernames, and gaming culture.
Leet Substitution Levels
| Level | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | A→4, E→3, I→1, O→0, S→5 | H3llo W0rld |
| Classic | Basic + T→7, L→1, G→9, B→8 | H3ll0 W0r1d |
| Extreme | Classic + multi-char substitutions and symbols | }{3||0 \/\/0r|_|) |
Origin of "1337"
The word "leet" comes from "elite" — skilled hackers and gamers would self-identify as "l33t" or "31337". The style peaked in the 1990s–2000s on IRC, gaming forums, and early internet culture. It remains popular in memes, gaming tags, and any context where deliberate misspelling adds irony or nostalgia.