handler

noun

han·​dler ˈhan-dᵊl-ər How to pronounce handler (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Two employees working in the hotel’s kitchen did not have their food handler cards. Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 17 Oct. 2025 Johnson has done most of his work off the ball, despite Denver’s desire to use him as a ball-handler. Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 15 Oct. 2025 Rally is the marketing mascot while his handler was a member of the marketing team and was responsible for the pup on a day-to-day basis and basically being his human companion for years, Chron reported. Tj MacIas, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 Oct. 2025 Since Conquest failed his mission, now Mark and Earth must deal with his handler. Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 10 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for handler

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of handler was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Handler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/handler. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025.

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