city in SW Asia, at the SE end of the Mediterranean: in ancient times, one of the chief cities of the Philistines; Biblical site of Samson's death (Judg. 16:21-30): pop. 120,000: the city and a surrounding strip of land (Gaza Strip) were alternately occupied by Egypt & Israel (1949-67); under Israeli administration (1967-94); an agreement in 1994 provided for a transfer of authority in stages that would result in self-rule