ATP most commonly stands for adenosine triphosphate, which is a high-energy molecule found in all living cells. It acts as the main energy currency in cells, fueling various biological processes such as muscle contraction, nerve impulses, and chemical synthesis by releasing energy when one of its phosphate groups is removed. ATP consists of adenine, ribose sugar, and three phosphate groups and is essential for life as it supports cellular functions and energy transfer.
In other contexts, ATP can also be an internet slang term meaning "at this point," used to refer to something happening currently or recently. It also can mean "answer the phone" in urgent communication settings.
However, the primary and widely recognized meaning of ATP is the biochemical molecule adenosine triphosphate.
