Which of the following describes the nature of battery?

Battery is defined as the intentional and unlawful application of force to another person, which can occur even with the slightest contact. The key aspect that makes an act a battery is the presence of intentionality and the application of force, regardless of the degree of harm caused. This means that even a temporary or minor touch can qualify as battery if it is done without consent and with the intent to make contact.

The other descriptions do not align with the legal definition of battery. Psychological harm alone does not constitute battery, which focuses specifically on physical contact. Similarly, battery is not limited to instances where serious injury occurs; even minor contact can be actionable. Lastly, minor threats without physical action do not meet the criteria for battery, as there must be actual physical contact involved. Thus, the definition of battery encompasses a broad range of actions, making "any force applied, no matter how slight" the most accurate choice.