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

Around 75% of workers ditched their employer before even receiving a promotion, according to an ADP report on 2023 payroll data. —Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 12 Mar. 2026

Temporary workers and independent contractors earned less per month than traditional employees, due in part to a lower average hour count, according to 2024 data from ADP. —Alex Harring, CNBC, 12 Mar. 2026

That said, Willis has clearly been going too low (QB22) in early Best Ball drafts, and his ADP is about to spike. —Jake Ciely, New York Times, 12 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

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