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

The handler reportedly offered Lavrynovych Russian citizenship in exchange for carrying out the attacks and frequently voiced support for Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to the outlet. —Bonny Chu, FOXNews.com, 16 June 2026

Lamb Avgerinos, a 33-year-old dog handler, drove 18 hours from Georgia with four of his cadaver dogs piled into his truck. —Karen Valby, Vanity Fair, 16 June 2026

Other supporting players include Adrian Lester as Dane Walter, a handler who barely bothers to shrug off news that, sometimes, sacrifices must be made. —Whitney Friedlander, Variety, 14 June 2026

With Wembanyama backing them up inside, the Spurs’ guards were able to put considerable pressure on the Knicks’ ball-handlers — all of which helped limit the Knicks to just 13 points in the first quarter. —Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 14 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing handler

• ball handler