One who handles something (especially manually) or someone.
The handler of a weapon gets a symbolic sensation of deadly power.
(in combination) A controller, trainer, someone who handles a specified thing, animal or person (especially a prizefighter).
The spy's handler told him to approach the subject by posing as a dog handler.
An advisor or manager to a person occupying a position or office to which the speaker believes the holder does not possess the typical qualifications and/or experience.
A subroutine that handles a particular situation such as an event or exception.