Experiencing time dilation means that the rate at which time passes for an observer differs from the rate at which time passes for another observer in a different reference frame. This effect is a consequence of the theory of relativity and has been observed and measured in various experiments.
In practical terms, time dilation means that the passage of time appears to be different for different observers depending on their relative motion or the strength of the gravitational field they are in. For example, if an observer is traveling at a high velocity or is in a strong gravitational field, they would experience time passing more slowly compared to an observer in a different frame of reference.
However, it's important to note that despite the difference in the perceived passage of time, time still continues to pass in an orderly manner for all observers in reality. The concept of time dilation does not disrupt the fundamental flow of time itself. Rather, it accounts for the fact that the measurement of time is influenced by relative motion and gravitational effects.
From the perspective of an observer experiencing time dilation, their local measurements of time would proceed as usual, without any perception of time slowing down. It is only when they compare their measurements with those of another observer in a different reference frame that the discrepancy in the passage of time becomes apparent.
To illustrate this, consider the twin paradox scenario. One twin stays on Earth while the other travels at high speed through space. When the traveling twin returns to Earth, they would have experienced less time passing compared to the twin who remained on Earth. Each twin's experience of time would seem normal and consistent within their respective reference frames, but the comparison of their experiences would reveal the time dilation effect.
In summary, experiencing time dilation means that the rate at which time passes is different for different observers due to relative motion or gravitational effects. Despite this difference, time continues to pass in an orderly manner for all observers, and the perception of time dilation only arises when comparing the experiences of observers in different reference frames.