handler

noun

han·​dler ˈhan-dᵊl-ər How to pronounce handler (audio)
ˈhan(d)-lər
Synonyms of handlernext
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The facility lacked records of food handler cards for all the food workers. — Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado june 26, Sacbee.com, 26 June 2026 The robot, which weighs more than a hundred and fifty pounds, could not recover, and three human handlers had to drag it away. — Stephen Witt, New Yorker, 29 June 2026 Puppies bursting with joy weave between the legs of their young handlers, while older dogs move neatly between the cones with gentle guidance – and treats – from the kids. — Patricia Huon, Christian Science Monitor, 30 June 2026 Williams has never lacked interpreters, custodians, handlers, or rescuers with pruning shears. — Literary Hub, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for handler

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of handler was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing handler

Browse Nearby Words

handle oneself
handler
handles
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Handler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/handler. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on handler

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for handler

Nglish: Translation of handler for Spanish Speakers

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