Which term describes the crime of physically attacking another person?

The correct term that describes the crime of physically attacking another person is "assault." This term encompasses the unlawful threat or attempt to cause physical harm to another individual. It does not require actual physical contact; the mere act of threatening someone in a manner that would cause fear of harm can be classified as assault.

On the other hand, "battery" refers specifically to the actual physical act of causing harm or unwanted touching without the individual's consent. While "assault and battery" combined refers to both the threat (assault) and the physical act (battery), the question asks for the term that specifically describes a physical attack, making "assault" the most appropriate choice.

Homicide refers to the act of one person killing another, which is a far more serious crime than what's described in the question about physically attacking someone. Therefore, "assault" is the most focused and accurate term for this type of action.