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

Data out Wednesday from ADP Research showed payrolls at US companies increased by 62,000 in March after a similar increase a month earlier. —Bloomberg, Mercury News, 3 Apr. 2026

Slow going Still, Homebase’s data is consistent with other indicators, including the ADP private payrolls report for March, showing modest gains in payrolls. —Jeff Cox, CNBC, 2 Apr. 2026

On Wednesday, the ADP monthly payroll report, the Institute for Supply Management’s manufacturing index, and retail sales data are due. —Jason Ma, Fortune, 29 Mar. 2026

The national median annual pay was $62,000, according to ADP, or $6,000 more than Kentucky's rate. —Olivia Evans, Louisville Courier Journal, 17 Mar. 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