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

Both ends of the leash will simply enjoy having people pet the therapy dog, chat with the handler, try to calm their nerves before running their big race, and, hopefully, have a significant, measurable feeling of relaxation. —Kelli Bender, PEOPLE, 31 Oct. 2025

The restaurant’s food handler cards were not available to review at the time of inspection. —Sacbee.com, 31 Oct. 2025

About 2 million people in the United States work in a range of occupational activities involving animals, such as livestock confinement, dairy farming, researchers and animal handlers, according to an article published by Science Direct. —Liz O'Connell, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Oct. 2025

With veteran guards Marcus Smart and Gabe Vincent added to the injury report, the Lakers were left with fifth-year guard Austin Reaves as the lone ball-handler signed to the main roster available on Monday. —Khobi Price, Oc Register, 28 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing handler

• ball handler