Pronunciation: [wˈɪli͡əm kˈɒsbi] (IPA) 
The proper spelling of the American comedian and actor's name is "William Cosby." In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /ˈwɪliəm kɑzbi/. The first sound is the "w" sound at the beginning of the word "will," then the vowel sound "i" as in "sit," followed by the "l" sound, "y" as in "my," "m" as in "me," and finally the "k" sound as in "kick," "ɑ" as in "car," "z" as in "zebra," and "bi" as in "bee."
William Cosby refers to the full name of Bill Cosby, an American comedian, actor, author, and producer. Born on July 12, 1937, Cosby gained worldwide fame and popularity for his comedy career, which often revolved around observations on family, relationships, and everyday life situations.
Throughout his career, Cosby appeared in various television shows, such as "I Spy" and "The Cosby Show," which played a significant role in shaping the portrayal of African-American families on television. Known for his warm and friendly demeanor, Cosby's performances often included storytelling and animated facial expressions that endeared him to audiences of all ages.
Besides his achievements in the world of comedy, Cosby has also been celebrated for his philanthropic efforts. He has been an advocate for education, particularly stressing the importance of reading and college attendance for young people. Additionally, Cosby has generously donated to various educational institutions and has been recognized for his contribution to the advancement of historically Black colleges and universities.
However, it is important to note that Cosby's reputation has been marred by numerous sexual assault allegations, with some cases resulting in legal action and criminal charges. In 2018, he was convicted of three counts of aggravated indecent assault and sentenced to prison. These legal proceedings have had a substantial impact on Cosby's public perception and legacy.
In conclusion, William Cosby, also known as Bill Cosby, is a renowned comedian and entertainer whose career has spanned several decades. While his artistic achievements have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment, his personal life has been clouded by controversy.
The term "William Cosby" does not have an established etymology, as it is a combination of a common given name "William" and the surname "Cosby".
The name "William" originated from the Germanic elements "wil" meaning "desire" and "helm" meaning "helmet" or "protection". It has been widely used in English-speaking countries since the Middle Ages.
The surname "Cosby" is of English origin and is derived from the village of Cosby in Leicestershire, England. It is believed to come from the Old Norse personal name "Kori" or "Kossey" which meant "black" or "dark", combined with the Old Norse word "byr" meaning "settlement" or "farmstead".
