The surname Chiriatti, together with its rarer variant Chiriatto, is characteristic of the Lecce Salento, with strong concentration in localities such as Martano, Copertino, Lecce and Nardò, and presence also in the Brindisi area (Cellino San Marco, San Pietro Vernotico). It is a surname of nickname or occupational origin, probably linked to a social function within the community.

According to E. Rossoni, its origin could go back to a nickname related to the trade of town crier, that is, the person in charge of publicly announcing news or communiqués. This interpretation is supported by the ancient Greek κηρύττω (keryttō), "to proclaim" or "to announce". Alternatively, the same author puts forward a possible derivation from the Greek κύριος (kýrios), with the meaning of "lord" or "arbiter", which would open a reading linked to functions of authority or mediation within the community.