handler

noun

han·​dler ˈhan-dᵊl-ər 

ˈhan(d)-lər

1

: one that handles something

2

a

: a person in immediate physical charge of an animal

especially : a person who exhibits dogs at shows or field trials

b

: a person who trains or acts as second for a boxer

c

: a manager of a political or public figure or campaign

Examples of handler in a Sentence

a dog handler and breeder

a politician and his handlers

Recent Examples on the Web

Puppies bursting with joy weave between the legs of their young handlers, while older dogs move neatly between the cones with gentle guidance – and treats – from the kids. — Patricia Huon, Christian Science Monitor, 30 June 2026

Single-zone units pair a single outdoor compressor to one indoor air handler and are best for individual rooms, garages or an isolated home addition. — Alora Bopray, USA Today, 29 June 2026

The robot, which weighs more than a hundred and fifty pounds, could not recover, and three human handlers had to drag it away. — Stephen Witt, New Yorker, 29 June 2026

With either real or play equipment, the handlers perform checkups or other procedures, modeling for kids that the experience won’t be scary. — Zuri Primos june 29, Kansas City Star, 29 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing handler

• ball handler