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

The restaurant didn’t have an employee with a food safety certificate, and California food handler cards were not available for review at the time of the inspection. —Sacbee.com, 14 Nov. 2025

Richardson-Sellers stars as ambitious and morally ambiguous Talamasca agent Olive, a master of disguise and handler to new recruit Guy (Nicholas Denton). —Sydney Bucksbaum, Entertainment Weekly, 9 Nov. 2025

Rocky became the family dog for the family of his handler, Officer Shawn Burger. —Kelli Arseneau, jsonline.com, 8 Nov. 2025

As Redick likes to put it, the effectiveness of a pick and roll comes down to both parties – the ball-handler and screen setter – doing their jobs. —Khobi Price, Oc Register, 7 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing handler

• ball handler