The surname Parrino is of nickname origin and derives from the Sicilian term parrino (or parrìnu), the dialectal form of padrino (godfather), which in Sicily also designates a priest. On this point E. De Felice and V. Blunda agree, noting that it is a byname tied to social and religious roles within the community.

E. De Felice further highlights its value as a designation of an influential or protective figure, while V. Blunda stresses the double meaning of “godfather” and “priest,” which reinforces its use as a nickname applied to people with that role. In some cases, as De Felice adds, the surname may also derive from the place name Parrini, which introduces a possible variant of territorial origin. In this way the surname reflects chiefly a social-religious nickname, later fixed as a hereditary surname.