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

Still, even as multiple locations and villains pile up, the bond between Agency handler Sam and tech phenom Queenie (Savannah Steyn) keeps the dramedy from imploding. — Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 15 July 2026

Beyond helping during traumatic calls, Lopez, Domino’s handler, said bringing him to a scene represents an effort to show residents a different side of law enforcement, one built around compassion and trust. — Verónica Egui Brito july 15, Miami Herald, 15 July 2026

The filing revealed that the Winston-Salem, North Carolina, resident Patten has been working as a warehouse materials handler for Coca-Cola, and a part-time handyman at a taproom and brewery since pleading guilty in December 2023. — Dan Mangan, CNBC, 15 July 2026

The dog must trust the handler enough to move across unstable ground, and through noise, dust, rain, and crowds. — Tibisay Zea, Christian Science Monitor, 15 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing handler

• ball handler