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

Authorities said Gaydarov first made contact with his Iranian handler in August 2025 and was paid roughly $23,000 — most of it in cryptocurrency — to carry out tasks in preparation for the assassination plot. —Elaine Mallon, FOXNews.com, 9 Apr. 2026

Frank’s aided by his remote connection to Tom, his handler, who keeps him on track. —Mary Ann Grossmann, Twin Cities, 5 Apr. 2026

Valente and Dakota split ways after the K-9 escaped from the handler’s Needham home and bit a 10-year-old boy in November 2014. —Lance Reynolds, Boston Herald, 4 Apr. 2026

The facility’s food handler cards were incomplete. —Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado april 3, Sacbee.com, 3 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing handler

• ball handler