Definition ∞ Multivariate PCS, or Multivariate Polynomial Commitment Scheme, is a cryptographic tool allowing a prover to commit to a multivariate polynomial and later demonstrate its evaluation at specific points without revealing the polynomial itself. This scheme extends standard polynomial commitments to functions with multiple variables. It provides a concise way to verify complex mathematical statements securely.
Context ∞ In advanced zero-knowledge proof systems, Multivariate PCS is a foundational primitive for constructing highly efficient and scalable proofs, particularly for computations involving multiple inputs or complex data structures. It is crucial for improving the privacy and scalability of blockchain transactions and smart contracts. Technical discussions in crypto news frequently reference these sophisticated cryptographic building blocks.