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

The program provides training in barista skills, espresso brewing, earning a food handler’s license, learning point-of-sale systems, customer service skills, food prep and other more general workplace skills. — Kansas City Star, 15 Oct. 2026

Complicating matters, Vision is being sought by one Paladin (Todd Stashwick), a relentless bounty hunter working for a mysterious client; Morgan plays his nameless remote handler. — Los Angeles Times, 14 Oct. 2026

For Indalkar, the forest officer from Balasore, protecting the orangutans is a responsibility that weighs heavily on every handler. — Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 14 Oct. 2026

Roger Picard, a canine search specialist with Florida Task Force 2, said two dogs and their handlers flew in a helicopter with the National Guard to patrol some of the barrier islands in case local fire or emergency services missed anything. — Anna McAllister, CBS News, 12 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing handler

• ball handler