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

Instead, each payment provider—Google Pay, Shop Pay, PayPal, regional payment processors—publishes their own handler specification. —Joe Toscano, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026

The facility was missing its food handler cards for all employees. —Sacbee.com, 16 Jan. 2026

Better training is coming Ansley and Erwin both said carriers are preparing to implement changes to adhere to new regulations that require better training for disabled passenger assistants and wheelchair handlers in the airport. —Zach Wichter, USA Today, 14 Jan. 2026

Rogen then named behind-the-scenes staffers, including the cinematographer, the costume designer, props handler, the caterer and others. —Brenton Blanchet, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing handler

• ball handler