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

That’s given the Jayhawks another ball-handler to go with Peterson and Melvin Council. —Shreyas Laddha, Kansas City Star, 19 Feb. 2026

Most of the fire victims said they were left in the dark about their cases, and were told to stop trying to communicate with their complaint handlers. —Los Angeles Times, 19 Feb. 2026

The rambunctious female calf caught international attention on social media for her precocious antics, including taking a toothless bite of her handler. —Jose R. Gonzalez, AZCentral.com, 15 Feb. 2026

The facility’s California food handler cards were not available for review. —Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado february 13, Sacbee.com, 13 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing handler

• ball handler