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

This fun luggage accessory from State Bags will help you and baggage handlers differentiate your bag from others. —Liz Provencher, Travel + Leisure, 11 Jan. 2026

So Jordan makes a point of serving snacks with flight attendants, loading suitcases with baggage handlers, and sitting in breakrooms talking to ramp agents. —Andrew Edgecliffe-Johnson, semafor.com, 9 Jan. 2026

The restaurant reportedly had no food safety manager and had no record of employee food handler cards. —Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 9 Jan. 2026

The two rested the snake, which took the help of Irwin and two other zoo handlers to be lifted, on their shoulders. —Tabitha Parent, PEOPLE, 9 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing handler

• ball handler