Which of the following accurately defines battery?

The definition of battery is accurately captured by the choice that describes bodily contact that is intentional. In legal terms, battery refers to the intentional and unlawful physical contact with another person without their consent. This can result in either harm or offense to the victim. It's important to note that the contact does not have to cause injury; even minor or non-injurious contact can constitute battery if it is intentional and unwanted.

The other options describe different concepts. Threatening behavior without contact aligns more closely with the definition of assault, which involves the threat of harm rather than the actual harmful contact. Unlawful detention of a person refers to false imprisonment, which relates to restraining someone against their will and is distinct from the physical contact element of battery. Lastly, harmful public statements are categorized under defamation, which involves damaging someone's reputation rather than physical interaction. Thus, the correct choice encapsulates the essence of battery as it pertains to the intention and nature of physical contact.