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

The hiring boom for construction workers, along with their rising salaries, is likely to continue, and more apprenticeship and trade programs will emerge for people who want to enter the industry, ADP said. — Medora Lee, USA Today, 25 July 2026

This analysis leans heavily on ADP (average draft position) and similarly priced players to determine value. — Jonathan Rubin, Charlotte Observer, 24 July 2026

If the Chargers stay on brand in 2026 — never quite achieving Death Star status on offense — Hampton will have a difficult time delivering on his ADP and preseason rank. — Andy Behrens, New York Times, 21 July 2026

Private sector employment also continued slow growth, according to new data from payroll processing firm ADP. — Megan Poinski, Forbes.com, 7 July 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