G. Rohlfs classifies this surname as of Greek-Byzantine origin and links it to the family of Petullà, derived from the Greek πεταλοῦδα, which means "butterfly." Its presence is concentrated in Calabria: in the cities of Catanzaro and Reggio Calabria, as well as in localities of their respective provinces, such as Crotone, Bianco, Locri and Siderno.

P. Durante, on the other hand, proposes a different etymology: he relates the surname to Greek, but with the sense of "maker of shackles," from a root linked to pede. This interpretation does not coincide with that of Rohlfs and is recorded as an alternative without support in the other available sources.

Both authors agree on the Greek origin of the surname, although they differ substantially in the meaning attributed to its etymon. Rohlfs adds that in Argentina it may be recorded without the accent, as Pedulla.