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

Outside the elections office in Oakland, ballot handlers were doing brisk business as voters lined up at the drive-up collection site. — John Ramos, CBS News, 4 Nov. 2026

Unite found that 72% of ground staff, including those working as security, ground handlers or customer service agents, and 71% of cabin crew receive verbal abuse at least monthly. — The Week Uk, TheWeek, 3 Nov. 2026

Approximately six employees did not have valid California food handler cards available for review. — Sacbee.com, 30 Oct. 2026

Only one of three food handlers had their food handler card at the time of the inspection. — Joseph Hernandez, Kansas City Star, 30 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing handler

• ball handler