E. Rossoni proposes that the surname would derive from a nickname based on the Latin term trichila ("vine pergola") or, alternatively, on the Latin trichilum, which designated a fountain or waterfall with three outlets, possibly alluding to a characteristic of the family's place of residence. Rossoni places it as typical of the Reggio Calabria area, with a special presence in Siderno and also in Locri and Gioiosa Ionica.

P. Durante, on the other hand, proposes a Greek origin and links it to the meaning of "three lips" or "harelip", from the etymon khele.