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

In this series, Martian’s CIA handlers are generally benign. —Anne Thompson, IndieWire, 19 June 2025

Guests are encouraged to leave their small army assistants and handlers behind (though some stash them in nearby hotels). —Matt Donnelly, Variety, 10 June 2025

Remember the old-fashioned cheating, when bags o’ cash were given to recruits and their handlers in exchange for signatures on letters of intent? —Jon Wilner, Mercury News, 10 June 2025

For Kohl’s, 768 employees will be laid off at the 500,000-square-foot location, with 664 being material handlers and 33 being e-fulfillment supervisors. —Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 6 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing handler

• ball handler