Meaning of the word "better a lean peace than a fat victory" in English

What does "better a lean peace than a fat victory" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

better a lean peace than a fat victory

US /ˈbetər ə liːn piːs ðæn ə fæt ˈvɪktəri/
UK /ˈbetər ə liːn piːs ðæn ə fæt ˈvɪktəri/
"better a lean peace than a fat victory" picture

Idiom

it is better to accept a less than ideal compromise or peace than to suffer the heavy costs and losses of a war or conflict, even if one wins

Example:
The two nations decided to sign the treaty, realizing that better a lean peace than a fat victory.
They settled the lawsuit out of court; after all, better a lean peace than a fat victory.