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

Select members were recruited as handlers for Daedone’s wealthy boyfriend, whose massive loans to the company were apparently repaid on an installment plan of blow jobs. —Dan Piepenbring, Harpers Magazine, 24 Oct. 2025

Earlier this year, it was revealed that cast members Abby McEnany and Eric Graise would not return for season 3 as handler Velma and tech wizard Bobby, respectively. —Randall Colburn, Entertainment Weekly, 21 Oct. 2025

The Nuggets use him as a cutter, a screener in inverted pick-and-rolls, a slasher and a secondary ball-handler. —Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 20 Oct. 2025

Thor, a dog that visits patients at hospitals across South Florida with his handler Alexandra Ramos, snuggled up to Katy in her hospital bed. —David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 19 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing handler

• ball handler