The surname Piccicuto is of nickname origin and derives from Sicilian dialect terms applied as bynames. On this point E. Rossoni and V. Blunda agree, linking it with behavioural characteristics attributed to the bearer.

E. Rossoni interprets it as a nickname referring to a 'capricious child', while V. Blunda relates it with the word piccicùtu ('presumptuous'), applied to people with airs of superiority or affectation. In this way, the surname reflects a descriptive designation of a behavioural character, later fixed as a hereditary surname.