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

To 'Defeat' Enemy Forces 'Bursting With Joy': 100-Year-Old Woman Reflects on Her WWII Love Story After the War After victory was declared and the war was over, many war dogs were returned to their owners or given to their wartime handlers. —Vic Verbalaitis, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 Aug. 2025

Four Muppet members of their band (and their human handlers) appeared on stage during the presentation, along with Kermit, Fozzie and Scooter. —Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 21 Aug. 2025

Three food establishments were closed for serious health violations: Rainbow Food Mart, at 1936 Mitchell Blvd, was temporarily closed after live roaches were observed in the snack bar area, along with improper cold holding temperatures and expired food handler certificates. —Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 Aug. 2025

All these jobs are paying off a debt to his former handler, the Barber (Colin Salmon), who covered the cost of Hutch burning piles of Russian-mob loot. —David Fear, Rolling Stone, 14 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing handler

• ball handler