Cosby Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Cosby come from? What does the surname Cosby mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Cosby and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Cosby Origin: What does the last name Cosby mean?
The surname Cosby has English origins and first appeared in records in the early 16th century. It started gaining prominence in the 17th to 19th centuries, with notable concentrations in the United States and Ireland. By the 20th century, the Cosby surname had spread to countries like Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, reflecting a widespread presence.
YourRoots data confirms the growth and global spread of the Cosby surname, with significant records in the United States, Ireland, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The surname's history shows a strong presence in various regions, indicating a rich heritage that continues to be prominent in different parts of the world.
Cosby Last Name History: Where did the last name Cosby come from?
Origin of Cosby Surname: Where does the last name Cosby originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Cosby first appeared in records from England around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Cosby spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Cosby: What does the Cosby surname history look like in the early days?
The Cosby surname started growing significantly in the 17th to 19th centuries, with notable concentrations in the United States. YourRoots data also shows Cosby family records in countries like Ireland, indicating a spread of the surname during this period.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Cosby surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Cosby surname grew significantly in the United States. The Cosby surname remains prominent in various regions, including the United States, Ireland, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. It appears in many countries, reflecting a widespread presence.
Explore Cosby last name heritage and Cosby surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Cosby Surame?
Bill Cosby
William Henry Cosby Jr. (July 12, 1937) is a retired American comedian, actor, and media personality. Cosby gained fame for his role as Cliff Huxtable in the sitcom "The Cosby Show" and his stand-up comedy albums. However, his career was overshadowed by numerous allegations of sexual assault, leading to his conviction in 2018. Despite his past success, Cosby's legacy remains tarnished by these controversies.
Camille Cosby
Camille Olivia Cosby (née Hanks; born Mar 20, 1944) is an American TV producer, philanthropist, and wife of comedian Bill Cosby. She influenced The Cosby Show's character Clair Huxtable and holds degrees from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Camille supports African-American literature and philanthropy, donating to educational foundations and organizations like Operation PUSH and UNCF.
Murder of Ennis Cosby
Ennis William Cosby (April 15, 1969 – January 16, 1997) was the son of comedian Bill Cosby, known for his role on The Cosby Show. Ennis overcame dyslexia to earn a master's degree in special education and was working towards his doctorate. Tragically, he was fatally shot in a robbery attempt at the age of 27 in Los Angeles, California. His legacy lives on through his passion for helping children with learning disabilities and his friendly demeanor, as seen in the children's show Little Bill created by his father.
Mary Cosby
Mary Martha Cosby (formerly Harris; born October 17, 1972) is an American television personality best known as an original cast member on Bravo's The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City. She made headlines for her controversial marriage to her step-grandfather, Bishop Robert C. Cosby, and her involvement in Faith Temple Pentecostal Church. Despite facing allegations and legal troubles, Mary continues to be a prominent figure in the reality TV world.
Erika Cosby
Erika Ranee Cosby (April 8, 1965 - ) is an American painter known for her abstract artwork that challenges negative stereotypes in African American culture. She is the daughter of philanthropist Camille Cosby and comedian Bill Cosby. Erika has received numerous accolades for her work, including a New York Foundation for the Arts Fellowship and a studio grant from The Marie Walsh Sharpe Art Foundation. She has exhibited her pieces in various galleries and was a curator for a pop-up art show in Brooklyn. Erika is also a benefactor of an art-based sexual assault awareness program in Chicago.
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