The surname Liborio and its variants have as their base an old personal name whose etymology is not entirely clear. According to A. Bongioanni, it is a given name of uncertain origin, linked to a saint of Gallic origin, a martyr in the year 397 and celebrated on 13 February. This name enjoyed a certain diffusion in southern Italy, although it fell out of use in the north.

To this reading may be added the proposal of E. Rossoni, who relates it to the medieval name Liborius, whose meaning could be read as "inspired". This name is linked to Saint Liborius, bishop of Le Mans in the 4th century, which reinforces its diffusion in Christian circles. From this base different forms and variants such as Borio, Borella, Borelli and Boria would have developed, documented especially in Piedmont —where Borio has a significant presence—, as well as in Sicily and in the region of Carnia.