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

Police said Gael ran from his handler last week while responding to a business alarm call. — Abby Dodge, CBS News, 16 Sep. 2026

Recovery cannot just be an error handler bolted on at the end. — Shivansh Inamdar, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2026

Though usually a very smooth operator, Latif has bungled the latest job for his handler Mike (Laith Nakli). — Damon Wise, Deadline, 13 Sep. 2026

One or more employees in the eatery did not have food handler cards. — Sacbee.com, 11 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing handler

• ball handler