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

Nolan McLean has a composite ADP 100 picks higher, yet Griffin is a bigger favorite to win NL Rookie of the Year. —Dalton Del Don, New York Times, 6 Mar. 2026

Since those comments, the jail’s ADP has increased by about 30 people, from 1,532 to 1,560 as of March 4. —Monroe Trombly, Louisville Courier Journal, 6 Mar. 2026

According to data from millions of active ADP payroll records, workers’ peak earning years often hit in the 45- to 54-year old age bracket. —Andreina Rodriguez, CNBC, 5 Mar. 2026

Some hints could be seen in ADP’s private payroll data report released earlier this month, which showed just 22,000 roles were added in January. —Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 11 Feb. 2026

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