handler
UK: ˈhændlə | US: ˈhændlər
n. a person who manages or controls something, especially equipment or animals
n. a person who deals with or processes something (e.g., baggage handler)
n. (Computing) a subroutine or function that manages specific tasks or events
The word "handler" combines the Old English root "hand," meaning to hold or manipulate, with the agentive suffix "-ler" (a variant of "-er"), indicating a person who performs an action. Originally tied to physical manipulation (e.g., handling objects or animals), its meaning expanded to abstract management (e.g., data handlers in computing). The suffix "-ler" reinforces the role-based nature of the word, common in occupational terms like "baker" or "teacher."
The dog handler trained the police K-9 unit with precision.
As a baggage handler, he ensured luggage was loaded safely onto flights.
The event handler in the code processes user clicks efficiently.
She worked as a media handler for the celebrity during the tour.
The museum’s artifact handler wore gloves to protect delicate objects.