Definition ∞ The succinctness parameter in cryptography quantifies how compact a proof is relative to the size of the statement it proves or the computation it verifies. A lower succinctness parameter indicates a more efficient and smaller proof. It is a critical metric for the practical utility of zero-knowledge proofs, affecting system performance.
Context ∞ In the context of scaling blockchain networks, the succinctness parameter is a vital consideration for the design of efficient zero-knowledge rollups and other layer-two solutions. Optimizing this parameter directly impacts transaction costs and network throughput. Improvements in proof succinctness are continuously sought to enhance the performance and accessibility of decentralized applications and digital asset transfers.