ADP

noun

ˌā-(ˌ)dē-ˈpē 

: a nucleotide C₁₀H₁₅N₅O₁₀P₂ composed of adenosine and two phosphate groups that is formed in living cells as an intermediate between ATP and AMP and that is reversibly converted to ATP for the storing of energy by the addition of a high-energy phosphate group

called also adenosine diphosphate

Examples of ADP in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

There tend to be discrepancies between reports by ADP and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, but weakness elsewhere — evident from Thursday’s ISM manufacturing data — suggests a rough patch ahead. —Andrew Ross Sorkin, New York Times, 2 May 2025

Private sector payrolls in the ADP survey fell far short of expectations at just 62,000 jobs added. —Sylvan Lane, The Hill, 2 May 2025

In a possible warning of future lay-offs, April’s ADP (private payroll) numbers came out Wednesday. —The Editors, National Review, 1 May 2025

And private-sector employers added far fewer jobs in April than expected, according to data from payroll processor ADP. —Jeanne Sahadi, CNN Money, 1 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

adenosine diphosphate

First Known Use

1942, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

ADP

noun

ˌā-ˌdē-ˈpē 

ā-ˈdē-ˌpē

: a compound formed in living cells that reacts to form ATP

Medical Definition

ADP

noun

ˌā-ˌdē-ˈpē  ā-ˈdē-ˌpē 

: a nucleotide C₁₀H₁₅N₅O₁₀P₂ composed of adenosine and two phosphate groups that is formed in living cells as an intermediate between ATP and AMP and that is reversibly converted to ATP for the storing of energy by the addition of a high-energy phosphate group

called also adenosine diphosphate