English Reference
noun

handler

n.
US /ˈhændəɫɝ/ UK /hˈændlɐ/ han·dler UK spelling handlers

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    a person who trains or manages an animal, especially in a professional way.

    a person who trains or manages an animal, typically in a professional context such as a dog show or a zoo.

    Simple

    The police dog followed every command given by its professional handler.

    In context

    During the exhibition, the experienced falconry handler demonstrated how the bird of prey would return to his glove from a great distance.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Informal

    someone who manages the public image or schedule of a famous person or politician.

    an advisor or manager who provides strategic guidance and logistical support to a public figure or politician.

    Simple

    The senator's handlers made sure he didn't answer any difficult questions from the press.

    In context

    Public relations handlers often script every interaction to ensure the celebrity maintains a carefully curated image during the promotional tour.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Technical Computing

    a piece of computer code that starts working when a specific event happens.

    a subroutine or function designed to execute in response to a specific event or exception within a software environment.

    Simple

    The programmer wrote a new error handler to stop the app from crashing.

    In context

    The system architect implemented a custom event handler to manage asynchronous requests without blocking the main execution thread.

    subroutinefunctioncallback
  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate

    a person who physically moves or carries goods, especially at an airport or warehouse.

    a worker who performs manual labour involving the physical movement or processing of goods.

    Simple

    Baggage handlers at the airport were on strike, causing long delays for passengers.

    In context

    The logistics company hired additional freight handlers to manage the increased volume of shipments during the peak holiday season.

Drago is a perfect villain for the late Cold War: Precisely programmed to “break” Rocky, he pumps performance enhancers and obeys icy government handlers.

Smithsonian Magazine· 31 Aug 2026

Accompanying characters include Vera (Amanda Hadingue), the handler who sends Khan to France, as well as Viennot (Léa des Garets), Khan’s sometime lover, and Vogt (Caoilfhionn Dunne), her mild-mannered interrogator.

The Guardian· 31 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated