The surname Piva is of nickname and occupational origin, derived from the term piva, which designates a wind instrument similar to the bagpipe. On this point E. Rossoni and F. De Laurentiis agree, noting that it could have originated as a nickname related to the trade of musician or player of this instrument.

E. Rossoni further adds a figurative value of the term in popular speech, where it may allude to attitudes such as complaining or showing displeasure, in relation to the characteristic sound of the instrument. In this way, the surname reflects both a possible professional activity and a descriptive designation based on behaviour, later fixed as a hereditary surname.