What solid figure has a circular base and tapers smoothly to a point?

The solid figure that has a circular base and tapers smoothly to a point is known as a cone. A cone is characterized by its round base at the bottom, which gradually narrows as you move up to a single vertex at the top. This distinctive shape is what sets it apart from other solid figures.

In contrast, a cube has six equal square faces and does not have a circular base or taper, which disqualifies it from being the correct answer. A pyramid, while it does have a pointed top, typically has a polygonal base, not specifically a circular one. Lastly, a cylinder has two parallel circular bases connected by a curved surface but does not taper to a point; it remains uniform in width along its height. Therefore, the cone is the only figure among the options that fits the description provided in the question.