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

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

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing handler

• ball handler