The surname Preti is of anthroponymic and nickname origin, derived from the term prete ("priest"), which in turn comes from the Christian Latin presbyter (from the Greek presbyteros: "elder"). On this point E. De Felice and F. De Laurentiis agree, noting that the surname arises from this ecclesiastical title, used as a name or byname within the community.

E. De Felice further highlights the wide variety of regional forms derived from this term, as well as its presence both in the Catholic tradition and, in southern Italy, in contexts linked to the Greek-Orthodox world. In this way, the surname reflects a designation linked to the religious sphere, which could indicate both the condition of priest and a relation with one, later consolidating as a surname.