adenosine

noun

aden·​o·​sine ə-ˈde-nə-ˌsēn 

-sən

: a nucleoside C₁₀H₁₃N₅O₄ that is a constituent of RNA and yields adenine and ribose on hydrolysis

Examples of adenosine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

At that point, rather than consulting someone who obsesses over how caffeine focuses us by blocking adenosine receptors in the basal forebrain, philosophers should hold sway. —Jessica Riskin, The New York Review of Books, 3 Apr. 2025

The Neurological Mechanics: How Caffeine Enhances Cognition At the heart of caffeine’s cognitive effects lies its interaction with adenosine, a neuromodulator responsible for signaling fatigue and promoting rest. —Ximena Araya-Fischel, Forbes.com, 2 Apr. 2025

Another habit linked to adenosine receptors and sleep quality is stopping your caffeine in the early afternoon. —Tanya Akim, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025

Powered by a blend of organic ingredients, this clear gel combines peptides with nourishing extracts like rice protein, adenosine (which can thicken the hair shaft), and peony root complex to stimulate hair growth and strengthen existing hairs. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 21 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from German Adenosin, blend of Adenin adenine and Ribose ribose

First Known Use

circa 1909, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing adenosine

• adenosine diphosphate
• adenosine monophosphate
• adenosine triphosphatase
• adenosine triphosphate

Rhymes for adenosine

• acetylene
• amphetamine
• anthropocene
• antipyrine
• apomorphine
• apoprotein
• aquamarine
• arsphenamine
• azobenzene
• buprenorphine
• chlorobenzene
• chlorpromazine

Medical Definition

adenosine

noun

aden·​o·​sine ə-ˈden-ə-ˌsēn, -sən 

: a nucleoside C₁₀H₁₃N₅O₄ that is a constituent of RNA yielding adenine and ribose on hydrolysis